District 5 News

Sign Up for Fall Community Clean-Up Day

Denver City Council District 5 residents are invited to join Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer for Fall Community Clean-Up Day on Sunday, September 27. Meet at Montclair Recreation Center (729 Ulster Way) at 8:30 a.m. to kick off the event, which will run until 11:00 a.m. Volunteers of all ages will help beautify our local parks, trails, and bus stops as we come together to care for our community.

Volunteers will refresh parks and trails by removing trash and debris, clearing overgrown vegetation, maintaining walking paths, and brightening bus benches with a fresh coat of paint–enhancing both the appearance and usability of public spaces. 

No experience is needed—just a willingness to help and a commitment to making a difference. Families and students seeking volunteer hours are encouraged to participate, making this a perfect opportunity for all ages to contribute meaningfully. Volunteers should dress for the weather and bring gloves if possible. Breakfast, necessary tools, and materials will be provided.

For more information and registration, go to bit.ly/D5FallCleanup2026 or click the button below. Thank you for volunteering your time to help keep our community a wonderful place to live!

Pickleball Courts Opened in Lowry

Pickleball courts are now officially open in the Lowry Sports Park Complex! The five new courts are located east of the tennis courts on Sports Boulevard and south of the outdoor rink. They are open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. While the courts are open late, the scope of this city project did not include additional lighting for the courts, so players should plan accordingly.



The Lowry Sports Park Complex is a premier 27-acre municipal athletic facility located at 8200 East Sports Boulevard in the Lowry community. These new dedicated pickleball courts expand the complex’s recreational offerings, complementing its existing multi-sport field, tennis courts and other amenities.

DPL Bookmobile at Schlessman Library Every Monday

While the Schlessman Family Branch Library remains closed for renovations, The Denver Public Library (DPL) bookmobile will be in the Schlessman Library parking lot every Monday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. while the branch is closed for renovation. The bookmobile offers a selection of children’s, teen and adult materials to browse and check out. You can also return library materials and pick up holds at the bookmobile.

DPL also offers home delivery service to anyone in the City & County of Denver who is unable to get to a library due to barriers like physical ability or transportation. For questions on eligibility, please email homedelivery@denverlibrary.org or call 720-865-1351.

Residents can check out denverlibrary.org/southeast for the latest schedule and service updates.

Speer/Leetsdale/Parker BRT Study Begins This Summer

This summer, the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) launched an 18-month study to evaluate options for enhanced transit service or bus rapid transit (BRT), along with supporting transportation infrastructure, on the Speer/Leetsdale/Parker corridor from downtown Denver to I-225. This study marks an important step in identifying potential corridor improvements over the coming decade. The effort is being led by DRCOG in partnership with the City and County of Denver, the City of Glendale, the City of Aurora, Arapahoe County, RTD, and CDOT.

A community outreach effort is underway to gather public input both online and in person. Sign up for updates on the project webpage to stay informed and share your feedback throughout the study.

Denver Water Lead Reduction Program Update

Denver Water started work in the Hilltop neighborhood as part of the Lead Reduction Program. Lead service line replacements are expected to begin in early September. Residents may experience temporary daytime water outages and parking restrictions, with advance notice provided before any outages.

Neighbors can contact Denver Water Customer Care at 303-893-2444 with questions.

Temporary Road Closures for Xcel Construction

Xcel Energy is replacing the aging Leetsdale-Monroe-Elati underground transmission line in central and southeast Denver to meet growing electricity demand. The new project will install a larger, more modern cable system to improve reliability. Temporary road closures will be in place as construction is underway.

Temporary Road Closures

• E Ellsworth Avenue between S Monroe Street and S Garfield Street
• E Virginia Avenue between S Ivy Street and S Jersey Street
• E 4th Avenue between Columbine Street and Detroit Street
• E 4th Avenue between St Paul Street and Adams Street
• E Ellsworth Avenue between N Colorado Boulevard and S Ash Street
• S Albion Street between E 1st Avenue and E Bayaud Avenue

During construction, there may be times when temporary restrictions to driveway access are required. If this becomes necessary, a construction representative will contact residents in advance to coordinate directly, minimizing disruption and restoring access as quickly as possible. Xcel Energy encourages residents and commuters to plan ahead for alternate routes and adjust street parking during this period.

For more information about current road closures and schedule changes, visit xcelenergytransmission.com/projects/leetsdale-elati.

Tree Planting Begins on East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)

The East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project aims to improve reliable, safe, and sustainable transit along the East Colfax corridor from Broadway to I-225. The project includes upgraded stations, enhanced amenities, and better pedestrian and bike connections.

A visible sign of progress is taking root along East Colfax Avenue as tree planting begins on the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project. Crews successfully planted the first tree on the north side of Colfax at Clarkson Street, marking an exciting milestone in the transformation of the corridor.

Over the coming months, residents, businesses, and visitors will see more greenery added throughout the project area. By late summer, a total of 172 new trees will be planted between Broadway and Colorado Boulevard, helping to create a more vibrant and welcoming streetscape.

Visit denvergov.org/ColfaxBRT to learn more and to sign up for updates on construction, project progress and opportunities to “Back the Fax” by supporting small businesses along the corridor.

Upcoming Construction for E. Tennessee Avenue and S. Oneida Street Stormwater Project

Excavation was delayed due to ongoing negotiations with the permit authority. The fencing, traffic closures, and detours remain in place, and there may be some material deliveries that will be stored inside the fenced area.

Additional updates will be provided soon on the erosion control permitting process.

Project updates and contact information are available on the project website.

We Back the Fax

East Colfax Avenue businesses remain open! This winter, support local businesses along East Colfax before, during, and after the East Colfax BRT for a chance to win a $50 gift card.

Here’s how:



• Eat, drink, shop or play at an East Colfax Avenue business
• Take a photo or video showcasing your support for the business
• Post on social media with the hashtag #WeBackTheFax and tag the business
• Unplugged from social media? Submit your photo via this form

Reminder - Help Us Spot Neighborhood Issues During 311 Thursdays

We're asking District 5 residents to call or text in an issue, problem, or complaint every Thursday! Is there a pothole on your street? Graffiti on an electrical box or building? Tall weeds or overgrown vegetation in your neighborhood? An intersection that needs improvements? Please call 311 to report an issue or text 'HEY311' to 439311.

Not only will this help the City know where problems are, it will generate needed data to show how the City can best allocate its resources to make our neighborhoods safer!

Community Spotlight

Celebrating Mayfair Park's 30th Anniversary

Mayfair Park is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, marking three decades as a cherished part of the Mayfair neighborhood. The anniversary recognizes the generations of Mayfair residents who worked to create a park at the heart of their neighborhood and the lasting community treasure it has become.

The land where Mayfair Park now stands was once associated with the Spears family and was adjacent to the Spears Free Clinic and Hospital for Poor Children. Beginning in 1972, Mayfair residents and community leaders worked for more than two decades to create the park, pursuing land acquisition, public funding and community support despite numerous challenges and setbacks. The City of Denver approved funding for the park’s development in 1994 and officially named the park in 1995. The park also honors its connection to the Smoky Hill Trail, which passed through what is now Mayfair and carried travelers westward during the 1800s.

The 30th anniversary will be celebrated alongside Mayfair’s annual Concert in the Park on Saturday, August 22, from 5–8 p.m. The free, family-friendly event will feature live music from local musicians and food trucks, giving neighbors a chance to bring lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy an evening in the park and celebrate this community milestone together. Donations are welcome to help support entertainment, permits and other event costs.

Small Business Spotlight

Cafe Solene

Cafe Solene is now open in the Colfax Mayfair BID! The new restaurant at 5001 East Colfax Avenue specializes in Mexican breakfast plates, like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros, and specialty coffee with a full bar. The restaurant ambiance is both upscale and family-friendly, with a beautiful outdoor patio.

Cafe Solene is named after owners Ana Karen and José Santos' baby girl. The couple also owns Santos, a local favorite similarly specializing in Mexican breakfast and lunch. 


Welcome to the neighborhood, Cafe Solene!

Video Recap

You may have seen the short, informational video clips Councilwoman Sawyer has recorded in an effort to provide transparency and to better connect residents to your government. Watch recent clips below!

WATCH: Reason for Voting No On New Downton Park


WATCH: Happy 150th Anniversary, Colorado!

WATCH: Repaving Monaco Street Parkway From Alameda to Mississippi Avenues

WATCH: Tickets for State of the City Address

Upcoming Rezonings

If you are interested in commenting during a hearing, please review the guidelines and FAQs, and sign up to speak here. Click here for information about how to participate virtually.

There are currently no open re-zonings in District 5.

Upcoming Public Hearings 

*dates are subject to change

August 17

• No hearings scheduled

August 24

• No hearings scheduled

August 31

• No hearings scheduled

September 7

• No hearings due to Labor Day

September 14

• 3201 N Speer Blvd

Citywide News

Ordinance on Neglected and Derelict Buildings Went Into Effect

A new ordinance I sponsored alongside Councilwoman Torres and Councilman Kashmann to address neglected and derelict properties went into effect on August 1. These properties can have impacts far beyond the property itself, affecting neighbors, businesses, and surrounding communities. The ordinance provides clearer expectations for property owners and helps ensure the city can respond more quickly and effectively when properties remain unresolved.

To report a neglected property in your neighborhood, call 3-1-1, text “hello” to 439311 (HEY311), or visit 311 City Services to submit a request or report an issue online.

Introducing the Denver Public Library Infrastructure Dashboard

Thanks to Denver voters, Denver Public Library (DPL) continues to evolve! DPL has completed several bond construction projects over the last few years and has several currently underway. Now, we have a new way to stay up-to-date on all these projects. Click to explore  DPL’s Infrastructure Dashboard and learn more about what is going on at your local library.

Help Shape the Future of Childcare in Denver

The City and County of Denver wants to hear from families, caregivers, employers, providers and community members to help shape the future of childcare in Denver. Learn more about surveys and community meetings here. Community feedback will help inform future recommendations and guide the City's next steps.

There are many ways to get involved:

• Take the online survey.
• Attend a community meeting.
• Share your experiences at a City event.
• Sign up for project updates.

Share your feedback and learn more here..

Mayor's Park $5 Summer Pilot Program Launched

Mayor Mike Johnston and the City and County of Denver have partnered with SpotHero to launch "Mayor’s Park $5," a first of its kind initiative that will make thousands of parking spots available in Downtown Denver for $5. The summer pilot program began on June 29 and lasts through the end of September 2026. Learn more here.

Applications Open for BUILD Denver Program

Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO), in partnership with Colorado Enterprise Fund (CEF), is accepting ongoing applications for the BUILD (Business Investments, Loans and Development) Denver program offering affordable loans to Denver small businesses seeking to start, invest or grow their business endeavors.

As part of the Denver Jobs Agenda, BUILD Denver provides undercapitalized small businesses with affordable loan products at a subsidized interest rate currently set at 4.99% and business coaching to help Denver businesses grow and create jobs. Businesses can apply for funding support ranging from $10,000 – $350,000.

Applications will be received on a recurring basis. Apply here.

What contractors and homeowners need to know about Denver's Universal Recycling and Composting Ordinance 

Denver’s Universal Recycling and Composting Ordinance (URCO), approved by voters in 2022, will require most larger construction and demolition projects to divert debris from landfills through recycling or reuse.

Starting September 1, 2026, new residential and commercial construction and demolition permit applicants must:

• Submit a Waste Diversion Plan and refundable security deposit.
• Divert at least 50% of covered debris by weight through recycling or reuse.
• Document compliance when the project is complete.

The requirements generally apply to new construction, additions and demolition projects over 500 square feet, as well as interior remodels over 2,500 square feet. Modified requirements or reduced deposits may be available for projects with site-specific challenges or economic hardship.

Learn more about the ordinance here.

Community Events & Meetings

DPR Empty Bowls Fundraiser

Join Denver Parks & Recreation for Empty Bowls Denver on Wednesday, September 2, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at City Park Pavilion. This community fundraiser supports the Food Bank of the Rockies and features handmade bowls created with recycled clay by students from up to 12 pottery studios across Denver. Attendees can choose a bowl, make a recommended donation directly to the Food Bank of the Rockies, and enjoy chili provided by the food bank, including a vegetarian option. The event highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity while bringing the community together for an evening of art, food and giving.

National Aviation Day at Wings Over the Rockies

Celebrate National Aviation Day at the Air & Space Museum on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Families can enjoy science demonstrations, select open cockpits, pedal planes, kids’ activities and more while exploring the Determined to Fly temporary exhibit celebrating Colorado’s 150th anniversary. Kids’ tickets are just $1.50 for the celebration.

Click here for more information and to buy tickets.

LUN & DPD: Coffee With the Cops

Save the date for a Lowry Coffee with the Cops, Wednesday, October 7, 10 a.m. to Noon at Logan House Coffee, 7111 East Lowry Blvd. Representatives of DPD, District 3, and their community engagement staff will be on hand so neighbors can talk with DPD officers. This is also an opportunity for police officers to receive suggestions and hear safety concerns from Lowry residents.

Cherry Creek Farmers Market

Cherry Creek Farmers Market returns for the season, running every Saturday through October 10, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Due to the construction of Cherry Creek West, it has been moved to the East Side of Cherry Creek Shopping Center near Macy's.

Open rain or shine and on all holidays, the market features a large mix of Colorado-grown seasonal produce and local goods, including fruits and vegetables, flowers, herbs, meats, dairy, baked goods, honey, prepared foods, artisanal products, food trucks, and live music. Visitors also benefit from free parking and a lively weekly community atmosphere with rotating vendors and fresh finds throughout the season.

For more details, visit coloradofreshmarkets.com/visit.

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB)

Meets the second Wednesday of each month from 5:30 - 7:30 PM

The Denver Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) is comprised of 19 members appointed by each City Council member, the Mayor, and Denver Public Schools. Advisory Board members work closely with their appointing authority, the community and the Department to be stewards of the Denver Parks & Recreation system.

View the Advisory Board Roster

Regularly scheduled meetings are open to the public and occur on the second Wednesday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. To request a recording of a previous meeting, or to sign up for public speaking time at an upcoming PRAB meeting, email Arthur.gilkison@denvergov.org.

Thank you to the amazing Meredith Levy who is the District 5 appointee to the PRAB!

Department of Transportation & Infrastructure (DOTI) Advisory Board

Meets on the second Tuesday of every month from 4:00 - 6:00 PM



The Transportation and Infrastructure Advisory Board was approved by the voters of Denver in 2020. The board comprises 19 members (6 Mayoral appointees and 13 City Council appointees) and is charged with advising DOTI on transportation policy and operations of the department along with reviewing and commenting on the proposed annual department budget.

Huge thank you to Joe Levi who is the District 5 appointee to the DOTI Advisory Board!

DPD2 and DPD3 CAB Meetings

Did you know that both of our police districts host monthly community meetings? Both District 2 and District 3 Commander Advisory Board meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of each month at the district station (excluding holidays). CAB meetings start at 6 p.m., but feel free to come early as Community Resource Officers will be available starting at 5 p.m. to answer specific questions, discuss concerns, or to help you register for crime prevention programs. This is a fantastic way to learn about how DPD is tackling crime in our neighborhoods and see real-time crime statistics for yourself!

District 5 neighborhoods located in Police District 2 are Hale, Mayfair, and Montclair. All other District 5 neighborhoods are located in Police District 3.

Registered Neighborhood Organizations

Denver is a unique city in promoting greater citizen involvement through organized neighborhood associations. Currently, there are 78 statistical neighborhoods represented by more than 200 registered neighborhood organizations (RNOs), Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Homeowner Associations (HOAs).

In its defined geographic area, an RNO will normally address neighborhood quality of life issues - such as traffic, development and zoning, crime, communication and licensing, and promote social activities to enhance residential spirit, developing a sense of community, and encourage resident participation. RNOs meet regularly and many send out newsletters to keep residents informed on neighborhood issues and events.

Get more involved in your community by joining your Registered Neighborhood Organization (RNO). Below is a list of Council District 5 community organizations. You can also find out which RNO you belong to by entering your address or selecting a location on the map.

• Bellevue-Hale Neighborhood Association
• Cherry Creek East Association
• Cherry Creek North Neighborhood Association
• Country Club Historic Neighborhood Inc.
• Crestmoor Park (2nd Filing) Homes Association
• Crestmoor Park Neighborhood Association
• Driving Park Historic District
• Hilltop Neighborhood Association
• Hilltop Heritage Association
• Historic Montclair Community Association, Inc.
• Lowry Community Master Association
• Lowry United Neighborhoods
• Mayfair Neighbors, Inc.
• Mayfair Park Neighborhood Association
• Park Forest Homeowners Association
• Preservation of Residential South Hilltop Neighborhood Association
• Rangeview Neighborhood Association
• Seventh Avenue Neighborhood Association
• Windsor Gardens Association
• Winston Downs Community Association