District 5 News

Potential General Improvement District (GID) in Cherry Creek

The results from the community survey on whether to move forward with the next phase of the conversation surrounding the potential creation of a General Improvement District (GID) in the Cherry Creek statistical neighborhood are in! My office is hosting community conversation on Zoom next Tuesday, July 22 at 5:30 PM via Zoom to present the results of the feasibility study. 

The creation of a General Improvement District is recommended in the Cherry Creek Area Plan.

Recordings from previous informational sessions can be found on our website: denvergov.org/CCGID.

If you have questions, please contact us at: CCGID@denvergov.org

A General Improvement District (GID) for the Triangle Survey

As the GID study in the Cherry Creek Statistical Neighborhood has progressed, we've heard from stakeholders in 'The Triangle' — as referenced by the map below — that there is possible interest in the GID expanding to this area.

What is a General Improvement District?

• A GID is a special district that is established to fund enhancements to an area, like security, placemaking, pedestrian lighting, and infrastructure.
• The study area of this GID proposal applies to the Cherry Creek statistical neighborhood, which is bordered by 6th Avenue to Alameda Avenue and University Boulevard to Colorado Boulevard.
• All property owners in a GID agree to tax themselves to fund improvements to a specified area.
• Property owners and all registered voters in Cherry Creek would have the final say on the creation of a GID by voting for or against it.

If you are a resident, property owner, or business owner in The Triangle, we invite you to take 5-10 minuets to complete the attached survey to let us know your thoughts

Holly Street Traffic Calming Study Recommendations

Denver City Council District 5, in partnership with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI), commissioned Fehr & Peers to study traffic concerns along Holly Street (from Leetsdale Drive to East 8th Avenue). This study followed similar efforts on other nearby streets to identify low-cost traffic calming solutions.

The study included two phases:



1. Observations, Data Collections, & Preliminary Study – Traffic volume, speed, bicycle, pedestrian counts (Nov. 13, 2024), crash data (2019–2023), and field observations (Dec. 18, 2024).
2. Public Outreach, Analysis, & Recommendations – A public meeting to present findings and gather community feedback.

Corridor- and Area-wide Recommendations

• School zone improvements
• Speed limit setting
• Curb extensions
• Marked crosswalks and stop bars
• Speed cushions
• Pedestrian signals
• Parking setbacks

Location-specific Recommendations

• Holly Street & East 4th Avenue – Trim vegetation, deflect travel lanes eastward
• Holly Street & East 3rd Avenue – Signal warning signage, additional signal head, hardened
• centerline, no parking signage
• Holly Street & Cedar Avenue – Install median
• Holly Street & Alameda Avenue – Lane legends, left-turn evaluation
• Holly Street & Dakota Avenue – Rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB), evaluate median,
• evaluate sight distance
• Holly Street & Leetsdale Drive – Left-turn evaluation

Sculptures at Burns Park

The Jazz and Yellow Bench sculptures will be put back in place at Burns Park this week, along with the red and black piece this summer. Come take a stroll and enjoy the renewed charm these vibrant works add to the park!

Denver Moves Bike Update

The Denver Moves Bikes Update is officially complete! Over the past year and a half, your voices have helped shape a safer, more connected future for biking in Denver. Thank you to everyone who participated in the public engagement process—your feedback directly shaped the final 20-year vision.

Project Process Timeline

Phase 1: Reorient

In fall 2023, the Denver Moves: Bikes Update began with public input highlighting concerns like unsafe intersections, lack of protected lanes, and limited bikeways. In response, the city updated its 2015 plan with new routes, upgrades, and a Core Network to improve safety and connectivity.

Phase 2: Recommend

In August 2024, the draft bike network update was released for public feedback during the second phase of engagement. Community input focused on realigning routes, fixing missed connections, and expressing support for specific projects. This feedback helped refine the final bike network and identify priority spot improvements across Denver.

Phase 3: Refresh

Public input and data analysis resulted in five major changes to Denver Moves: Bike compared to the 2015 plan.

1. Adding more bikeways to the map to enhance connectivity
2. Assigning different bikeway types to align with best practices
3. Adjusting recommendations based on project feasibility
4. Identifying upgrades to existing bikeways
5. Establishing a Core Network

Phase 4: Revamp

The updated bike network plan will help Denver secure funding and accelerate project development. It’s designed to be flexible, allowing for adjustments to routes or designs as new data and community input emerge.

Updated Map

The final Safe and Slow Streets map is a 20-year vision shaped by community input, data analysis, and modern bikeway design. It guides the development of a connected, comfortable, and safe bikeway network across Denver, though projects vary in readiness and funding. The map is flexible and will evolve with future planning, design, and community feedback.

Your City, Your Voice Survey

Denver City Council is launching out Your City, Your Voice: Empowering Denver survey. We’re gathering feedback about your Registered Neighborhood Organizations (RNOs)!

Whether or not you know anything about RNOs we’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback surrounding RNOs. These organizations are a vital part of local decision-making, connection, and advocacy, and your input and perspective can help strengthen their role in building a more equitable Denver for all. 

Help us work with you to create stronger, better connected Denver neighborhoods. Your city, your voice! Take our quick survey here: linktr.ee/yourcityyourvoice

Email us at: yourcityyourvoice@denvergov.org

East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Progress

Work continues on the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, aimed at improving reliable, safe, and sustainable transit along the corridor, and is set to start in District 5 this summer. Visit the project website to learn more about the improvements happening along the corridor and to sign up for notifications.

East Colfax Avenue businesses remain open! This summer, 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

Pipe Replacement and Lead Reduction Program Underway

Beginning this week and next, Denver Water will start three pipe replacement projects in District 5:

• Montclair neighborhood (Jasmine St between East 11th Ave & East 14th Ave and Jersey St between East 11th Ave & East 13th Ave)
• Hilltop neighborhood (Niagara St between East 4th Ave and East 5th Ave and Newport St between East 4th Ave & East 5th Ave).
• Hale and South Park Hill neighborhoods (Bellaire St between East 13th Ave and East 16th Ave).

If you have questions about the project, contact Denver Water Customer Care at 303-893-2444 or visit DenverWater.org.

Reminder - Help Us Spot Neighborhood Issues During 311 Thursdays

We're asking District 5 residents to call 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 report to 311! 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

Falyn Swerer-McNutt

This month, Falyn joined our office as a marketing and communications aide. She will assist with creating, developing, and managing marketing content, outreach campaigns, print materials, and newsletters for Denver City Council District 5. Falyn brings a strong commitment to fostering community engagement and ensuring residents stay informed about important issues. She is excited to support initiatives that improve quality of life and strengthen community connections.

Small Business Spotlight

While you're enjoying the Cherry Creek North Concert Series this summer, stop by Sweet Izzy — Denver's only plant-based ice cream shop!

Open since November, Sweet Izzy is a family-owned business run by Elizabeth and Mike Doucette, who named the shop after their daughter, Isabelle. All of the ice cream is made in-house and is plant-based, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan.

"People have celiac, lactose intolerance, and so many dietary reasons that preclude them from eating ice cream," said Elizabeth. "We tested and retested to come up with delicious alternatives, and our customers rave about the results."

Thank you for your dedication to our community!

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: Join Us July 22 to Discuss a General Improvement District in Cherry Creek!

WATCH: Happy Independence Day

WATCH: Happy Pride Month

WATCH: Welcome Falyn to the Team

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

July 21

• No public hearings

July 28

• 4235 N Columbine & 2335 E 40th Ave
• GO Bond (Courtesy)

August 4

• 2501 E 48th Ave Rezoning
• 2420 W 14th Ave Rezoning
• Broadway BID formation
• Modernizing parking requirements

August 11

• Waste no more

August 18

• 801 15th St

August 25

• 3025 W 3rd Ave

August 25

• 3025 W 3rd Ave

Citywide News

Proposed At-Large Charter Amendment

Denver City Council members Amanda Sawyer, Kevin Flynn, Darrell Watson, Stacie Gilmore, and Flor Alvidrez propose changing the election method for the city's two at-large council members. Instead of voting for both on a single ballot, voters would cast separate votes for At-Large A and At-Large B, ensuring each winner gets over 50% of the vote. This change aims to align with other city officials’ election rules, reduce voter confusion, increase participation, and ensure more votes truly count. Learn more about the charter amendment at DenverGov.org.

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Confirmed in City and County of Denver — What to Know & Next Steps

The emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive pest that has devastated ash tree populations across the U.S. and Canada, has been confirmed in the City and County of Denver as of June 19, 2025. This insect poses a significant threat to our urban canopy, as 1 in every 6 trees in Denver is an ash tree. 

The good news? There are steps you can take to protect your ash trees and help slow the spread of EAB. Here’s how you can become a Smart Ash:

Identify Your Ash Trees 

• Look for compound leaves with 5-9 leaflets, opposite branching, and diamond-patterned bark. Visit BeASmartAsh.org for photos and resources to help you identify ash trees. 

Inspect Your Trees

• Signs of EAB infestation include: 
• D-shaped exit holes in the bark 
• S-shaped tunnels under peeling bark 
• Thinning branches and dying canopy 
• Increased woodpecker activity 

Take Action 

• If you have an ash tree, consult a licensed tree care professional to discuss treatment or removal options. Proper treatments are 95% effective when applied by professionals. 
• If removal is necessary, consider replacing your ash tree with a Denver Office of the City Forester-approved species. 

Spread the Word 

• Share this information with neighbors, friends and colleagues to help slow the spread. 

Why It Matters: 

Trees are essential to our quality of life. They produce oxygen, reduce smog, cool neighborhoods, and increase property values. Taking action now will help preserve our urban forest for generations to come. 

For more resources and updates, visit BeASmartAsh.org. 

Let’s work together to protect our community’s trees. 

Summer Watering Rules are in Effect

Summer watering rules for Denver Water customers are now in effect. However, with the recent rains, we ask that you let Mother Nature be your guide and not run your sprinklers when you see rain in the forecast. The watering rules run through October 1.

This year, we’re also asking our customers with irrigation systems to switch their automatic sprinklers to different days and times to reduce strain on the water system. In asking customers to “Shave The Peak,” we’re encouraging folks to switch sprinkler timers to run at days and times other than Monday mornings at 5 a.m. This is a default setting for most sprinkler clocks, which means we see a large spike in water use throughout our system right at this time, every week. This “peak” strains the system, requiring us to treat and distribute more water for this moment, increasing energy use and costs to meet elevated demands.  

Community Strategic Planning for the Denver Fire Department

The Denver Fire Department is collecting valuable insights and feedback to assist us in forming our goals and objectives for our 5-year strategic plan which begins in 2026. Your input as a Denver resident is crucial in helping us understand different perspectives as we formulate our long- and short-term goals.

Please take a moment to fill out the survey linked to the QR Code below. The survey will close on July 31, 2025. DFD truly appreciates you taking the time to tell them what fire department issues are important to you and your community.

Help Shape Mental Health & Recovery Support in Denver

Caring for Denver was created and funded by Denver voters to invest in mental health and substance misuse solutions that reflect what our communities need most. Their work is shaped by what they hear from the community—and they want to hear from you!

Take a few minutes to complete this short survey and share what’s important to you. Whether you live or work in Denver, your voice matters.

👉 Take the Survey

📣 Please share widely with your networks!

Property Tax Relief Program Now Open

Beginning today, the City and County of Denver is accepting applications for its annual Property Tax Relief Program. Qualified residents can apply for a refund on their 2024 property taxes until April 30, 2026.

Now managed by the Department of Housing Stability (HOST), the program provides financial assistance to older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families.

The Denver Property Tax Relief Program offers a partial refund of property taxes paid—or the equivalent in rent—to qualifying residents of the City and County of Denver. This year, for the first time, applications can be submitted online at denvergov.org/propertytax. Refunds start at $372, with an average payment of around $1,000.

With more than 3,000 residents benefiting from the program last year, the city hopes to increase participation this year by expanding access through a new online application portal, available in both English and Spanish.

Learn more and see if you’re eligible at denvergov.org/propertytax.

Need help applying? Call or text:

• Colorado Housing Connects: 1-844-926-6632
• CARE Center: 303-838-1200

Community Events & Meetings

Cherry Creek North Summer Concert Series

Don’t miss the Cherry Creek North Summer Concert Series on Thursday, August 14! There will be live music from 4–8:30 PM at Fillmore Plaza, featuring The Beatles Tribute with Milestone at 6:30 PM, Big Dopes at 5 PM, and Erin Stereo at 4 PM. Bring friends, blankets, and good vibes. Visit CherryCreekNorth.com for more information.

Denver Resilient Landscapes Pop Up Events

The Denver Resilient Landscapes team is coming to a neighborhood near you this summer! Visit the District 5 pop-up event on September 11 at Cherry Creek North to learn about resilient landscaping, share your input, and enjoy sweet treats.

For more information, visit: DenverGov.org/landscape

Denver's Back to School Fest

Don’t miss Denver’s biggest Back to School Fest on Saturday, August 2 at National Western Center! Enjoy free school supplies, health clinics, games, live entertainment, and more. Bring your family and support our students from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

National Night Out

Join Denver Police for the National Night Out at City Park Pavilion on August 5. Enjoy food, music, kids' fishing, and connect with community partners for a fun and family-friendly evening!

Smash Summer Fine Arts Festival

The Smash Fine Arts Festival returns to Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek North August 9–10. Enjoy art, music, and community from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily—free and open to all! For more information visit CherryCreekNorth.com.

Free Day at the Denver Art Museum

As summer hits its peak, the Denver Art Museum welcomes you to enjoy tons of exciting events, including a free visit on Sunday, July 27 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (made possible, in part, by voters who support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) and presented by Your 6 Front Range Toyota Stores), the third Untitled: Artist Takeover of the year, and a Block Party to celebrate the completed merger between the Denver Art Museum and The Kirkland. 

Summer Kids Club Series

Cherry Creek Shopping Center is excited to announce the return of its Summer Kids Club, a free, family-friendly event series taking place on select Wednesday mornings from 10:30 to 11:30 AM through August 13, 2025.

Designed for children ages 3 to 10, the Summer Kids Club features eight weeks of engaging activities, live performances, and educational fun. Each week brings something new—from STEM challenges and cookie decorating to a live magic show. This year’s lineup also includes an interactive pollinator program from Denver Botanic Gardens, where kids will plant pollinator-friendly flowers and create their own pollinator-themed craft.

Summer 2025 Kids Club Schedule:



•  July 16 – Science Project with Mad Science of Colorado
• July 23 – Planting with Denver Botanic Gardens
• July 30 – Music with Katherine Dines
• August 6 – Magic Show with Magic Rob
• August 13 – Safari Adventure with Party Safari

“We’re thrilled to welcome families back for another year of our Summer Kids Club series,” said Michael Wilson, General Manager of Cherry Creek Shopping Center. “Each week offers something unique, fun, and educational for children and parents alike, and the entire series reflects our ongoing commitment to creating memorable experiences for our community.”

Events are free and open to the public, but space may be limited. Families are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy additional kid-friendly experiences throughout the center.

For more information, visit https://www.shopcherrycreek.com/pages/kids-club-2025

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 6pm, but feel free to come early as Community Resource Officers will be available starting at 5pm 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
• South Hilltop Neighborhood Association
• Windsor Gardens Association
• Winston Downs Community Association

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