District 5 News

The Cherry Creek Recycling Center is now Open

Exciting news! After closing for repairs earlier this year, Cherry Creek Recycling Center is now open again to Denver residents. Got recycling that won't fit in your bin? Drop it off for free Tuesday - Saturday, during operating hours. Denverites can also drop off compostable material, such as yard waste, for free.

For more information about hours and location visit https://bit.ly/3KFB1yN

Montclair Rec Center is Open Full Time!

Our office is thrilled to announce that beginning June 3rd, Montclair Rec Center is once again open on Mondays. As you may know, the city recently faced tough budget decisions, necessitating cuts across departments to support migrants. After a thorough review of the city's finances, the Mayor has announced the restoration of Recreation Center hours citywide. We are delighted for you to enjoy Montclair Rec Center on Mondays, especially over summer break. For more information on programs and Rec Center status, please visit the recreation website.

Windsor Neighborhood Adaptive eBike and eTrike Library Study Meeting and Demo

Learn about an exciting study to determine whether Windsor residents and workers are interested in short-term, FREE rental of e-bikes to get around. The study, funded through the Colorado Energy Office and supported by Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer, examines the feasibility of setting up a location in the Windsor neighborhood where you could borrow an e-bike for an hour, a day or even a week to get to work, go shopping or simply enjoy a ride along the Highline Canal.  

Please RSVP here and save the date for Friday, July 26 at 1 PM at the Windsor Gardens Auditorium at 575 S Clinton St, Denver, CO 80247. Enjoy refreshments and connect with others while learning about the e-bike project. You can even test drive an e-bike after the meeting. Helmets will be provided. 

Can’t attend but have a few minutes to learn and give feedback? Please fill out this brief survey. Thank you!   

Lead Reduction Program Continues in the Hale Neighborhood

Beginning Tuesday, May 7, Denver Water’s contractor, Five Star Energy Services, began work in the Hale neighborhood for the Lead Reduction Program. 

• Status: Work includes investigations to confirm the presence of lead service lines and conversations with customers to get consent. Service line replacements will start in several weeks.  
• Other impacts: Temporary water outages may be necessary in this neighborhood. Planned water outages will occur over two consecutive days from approximately 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a shorter timeframe whenever possible. Crews will place “No Parking” signs in the work area.
• Notifications: Denver Water will send a mailed notice two to three weeks before any planned outages. One to two days before the outage, customers will receive a door hanger with the anticipated date and timeframe of the outage. 
• Up next: Denver Water has provided an initial notification to residents in the Hale neighborhood via our Good Neighbor notice (attached) and we will continue to coordinate with directly impacted customers as work moves through this area. 
• Project map: You can view an up-to-date project map here.  

Additional resources: Denver Water aims to place Lead Replacement Program updates for this neighborhood throughout the project as needed and wants to share some additional resources to help you notify your community about the program.  

• To spread the word and provide updates, Denver Water offers community presentations by request for registered neighborhood organizations, business districts or other neighbors interested in hearing more about the Lead Reduction Program.  
• Denver Water also sends out a subscriber newsletter specific to the program with content to fit different needs. 
• Lastly, Denver Water provide updates on Nextdoor as needed. 

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

Metro Water Recovery Work Touches Part of District 5

As part of ongoing and routine wastewater treatment system maintenance, Metro Water Recovery is rehabilitating segments of corroded pipe within Aurora. The Aurora Westside Interceptor Rehabilitation Project is necessary to maintain approximately 23,000 feet of pipeline that runs from Parker Road and I-225 to Dayton Street and Smith Road. 

The work performed by Inliner Solutions began in early September. Construction for this critical infrastructure will be limited to brief disturbances at eleven bypass locations. Locations affected in 2024 are listed on their website. Upon completion, worksites will be restored to preconstruction conditions and crews will move to the next site.  

The construction method for this project (known as “cured in place pipe or CIPP”) allows work to be completed within a small footprint. However, CIPP installation cannot be performed during live flow conditions and requires temporary above-ground bypass pumping. Short-term road closures and/or traffic detours may be needed along bypass pumping routes.  

Businesses and residences impacted by the construction will receive contact information from Inliner Solutions as the project progresses. Anticipated timelines for work at each location will also be provided. Door hanger notifications will be distributed 24 to 48 hours in advance if service interruptions are anticipated. 

Metro Water Recovery is committed to completing this routine maintenance project safely, efficiently, and with minimal disturbances to local businesses, residents, and visitors. 

Mayfair Park May Update

Contractors are getting started on repairing the drainage issue in the playground, and are still aiming to complete this work by July. The old surfacing will be removed and new drainage will be installed over the next few weeks.

As you are likely aware, part of the park has been fenced off since the existing drainage system (installed in 2012 with the playground construction) failed. During the heavy rains in 2023, the entire playground was filled with water and would not properly drain out. The drainage system is being improved to ensure that it flows properly so the playground does not fill with water again.

Thanks for your patience over the last year as DPR worked to find a way to fund this emergency need.

Schlessman Public Library Needs Your Help!

One of DPL's most popular branch libraries is in need of renovations! Though the renovation was initially funded in 2017 through a city bond, increased construction and labor costs and inflation require additional funding to complete the project.

The renovations will include an improved community room on the first level, a brand-new teen space, a larger children's library, and enhancements throughout the library that make spaces easier to access and use. To find more information visit dplfriends.org/schlessman



Fundraising Goal: $600,000

Ellsworth Ave. Storm System Phase 2 Status Update 

Phase 1 of the Ellsworth Storm project is complete. The project began in August 2021 at the intersection of Steele St and Ellsworth Ave. This work required extensive relocation of underground utilities. Major work was performed in the Ellsworth corridor to update and replace the storm sewer lines that flow down Ellsworth Ave and connect to Steele St. Green Infrastructure planters were placed on all corners of the Adams St and Ellsworth Ave intersection and the NE corner of the Cook St and Ellsworth Ave intersection. Phase 1 ended just west of Madison St on Ellsworth Ave.

Phase 2

The work on Phase 2 is similar to Phase 1 however there will be no planters or bulb outs. Ellsworth will be regraded to eliminate flat areas that currently experience ponding and icing. Additionally, underground storage and multiple inlets will be added throughout Ellsworth Ave to intercept some of the flow.

Location

Phase 2 will begin where Phase 1 left off on Ellsworth Ave just west of Madison St and continue east to Garfield St. 

Extensive Utility Relocations

The utility relocations on this project are extensive. Throughout 2023, residents and businesses saw utility contractors working on relocating their lines in preparation for the storm project.

Schedule

The design of Phase 2 of the Ellsworth Storm project is complete. Pending funding availability, construction is expected to begin late-2024. 

Exposition Traffic Study Virtual Recommendations Meeting in August

Our office is working with the Winston Downs Community Association, residents, and Denver's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to improve Exposition Avenue from Leetsdale Drive to Quebec Street including the Monaco Parkway & Leetsdale Drive intersection. This study will identify opportunities to calm traffic on Exposition Avenue and to improve crossings for people walking and biking.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on May 21 at 6:00pm for a virtual data collection meeting. Please mark your calendars for Aug 13th where we host our virtual recommendation meeting.

Phases 3 and 7 of Denver Water’s Pipe Replacement Project on East Colfax Avenue

Denver Water crews are replacing over 5 miles of 130-year-old pipeline in advance of the upcoming East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit project, which is being led by the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure.

When: Denver Water has begun work on phases three and seven of the pipe replacement project along the East Colfax Avenue corridor. The entire project should be complete by the end of 2024. Construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and may be altered to accommodate major events in Denver.

Where: Two crews will be working simultaneously along East Colfax Avenue.

• Phase three: East Colfax Avenue between York and Cook streets.
• Phase seven: East Colfax Avenue between Quebec and Xenia streets.

Local access to residences and businesses will be maintained throughout the project. Commuters should expect delays in this area. For more information or to sign up to receive updates, we encourage folks to visit denverwater.org/Colfax. Denver Water and RTD are coordinating to minimize impacts to bus routes throughout the project.

Water outages will be necessary on this project. Crews will provide a notice with the date and time of the planned water outage on the front door of your property at least 24 hours in advance of the planned water outage. While unlikely, emergency water shut-offs may also occur. Visit denverwater.org/Outage for more information.

Working hours are typically Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 8:30 p.m. Some night or weekend work may be required.

Give Your Input – Alameda Avenue Concepts for Improvements

Do you live, walk, bike, take transit or drive along Alameda Avenue? The Denver Regional Council of Governments and our partners want to hear from you. Take this survey - you will see improvement ideas for each segment of the corridor and for key intersections. We want to know what your priorities are for next steps and which concepts you think will best meet the needs of the community.

The corridor is being studied from Wadsworth in Lakewood to Sable in Aurora. In late 2023, we heard from the community about the need to improve crossings for bikes and pedestrians, frustration with the lack of sidewalks, high speeds, a desire to improve transit frequency, availability, regional connectivity and more. That feedback, combined with technical analysis, has resulted in a set of improvement concepts to address those issues.

Jackson Street Storm Drain Project Update

Crews will be working to finish up along E. 13th Ave. and get ready for paving—set for the 15th of June. As soon as E. 13th Ave. is opened, crews will work along Colorado Blvd. on planter installations, new sidewalk, and a wall. Work on the underground manhole structures continues. The full closure of E. 13th Ave.—from Colorado Blvd. to Albion Street—will stay in place until the week of June 17th.

The single lane closure along NB Colorado Blvd. on the east side—between E. 13th Ave. and E. 14th Ave.—will remain in place as long as that work continues. The sidewalk closure on the north side of E. 13th Ave. will also continue until that stretch opens. The sidewalk closure around the corner from that -- NB on the east side of Colorado Blvd. -- remains in effect, as does the sidewalk closure at the SE corner of Colorado Blvd. and E. 14th Ave. No parking is allowed along Albion Street between E. 14th Ave. and E. 13th Ave. during the E. 13th Ave. closure.    

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 in 2024! 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

Matthew Walter

This month, Matt joined our office as a Senior Aide. He will be helping the office with policy research and connecting residents to city services. Specifically, Matt will be taking over issues affecting the eastern portion of the district. He is most excited to get out into the community, attending the many fun events in District 5 and making some new friends along the way.

Small Business Spotlight

Anthony's Pizza and Pasta

Anthony's Pizza and Pasta got its start in 1984, when Henry Mann opened his first slice shop on the 16th Street Mall. As at any stereotypical pizza shop, the service has always been gruff, though not unfriendly. Know what you want when you get to the counter, order it, and you'll have no problems. In addition to quality pizzas, they offer a plethora of other pizza-shop delights such as pastas, meatball heroes, salads, and appetizers. Though the quality can vary widely from location to location, a simple New York-style red-and-white is always a safe bet. At Anthony’s, they’ve been crafting authentic New York style pizza fresh every day, for over 35 years. Anthony’s Pizza and Pasta is a staple in District 5, be sure to check it out if you haven’t tried it!

Thank you being an amazing business for all of the residents in the district!

Upcoming Rezonings

If you are interested in commenting during a hearing, please review the guidelines and FAQs, and sign up to speak here. Sign-up for public comment at a hearing begins 45 minutes prior to the Committee’s scheduled start time and ends 15 minutes before the meeting begins. Click here for information about how to participate virtually.

There are currently three open re-zonings requests in District 5. 

• 2500 E 1st St was filed on May 31, 2024. Planning Board hearing is TBD.
• 10353 E. Mississippi Ave was filed on June 7, 2024. The Planning Board hearing is TBD.
• 1055 Clermont St (the VA property) was filed on April 16th, it went through planning board and committee, the public hearing will be on July 8th.

Upcoming public hearings 

*dates are subject to change

June 17

• Great Lawn Park designation in LUTI
• 4340-4350 S Monaco St

June 24

• Council District 1 ADU Rezoning
• Extend Sidewalk Ordinance Deadline

July 1

• No meetings because of Fourth of July

July 8

• 1055 Clermont St. (the VA property)
• Multiple addresses in West Colfax, Villa Park and Barnum
• Ballpark GID Creation

July 22

• DURA Evans School Redevelopment Plan and Cooperation Agreement
• 3821-3897 Steele St and a portion of 3840 York St

July 29

• Colfax Mayfair BID Extension

Citywide News

Youth Summer Opportunities

This summer, the City of Denver and DPS are partnering to provide youth of all ages with engagement opportunities. For youth interested in summer enrichment programs, visit the Youth Program Locator, and find program opportunities near you. If you are looking for youth and family focused events, www.denvergov.org/youthsummer will be updated with many different community events during the months of July and August.

In addition, Denver youth ages 14-21 have an exciting opportunity to gain valuable work experience and earn a financial incentive through the YouthWorks Initiative. Denver youth will be able to earn a $1,000 bonus from the city if they work 100 hours this summer, participate in financial empowerment training and meet certain income eligibility requirements. These summer work experiences will help build your resume, your skillsets, and your wealth. Applications for the YouthWorks Initiative are open until June 30. You can find all of this information and more at the summer programming website: https://bit.ly/4cgyHdn.

Denver Disability Commission Needs Your Voice!

The Denver Commission for People with Disabilities (DCPD) is actively recruiting new members with lived disability experience as well as allies and disability advocates. The mission of the Denver Division of Human Rights and Community Partnership disability commission is to promote and enhance equality for people with disabilities through empowerment, advocacy, and education by working with community members, as well as City and County of Denver officials and employees who can effect change.

The DCPD meets on the first Tuesday of every month by Zoom. Goals are determined annually depending on Commissioners interests and city priorities. The DCPD meets with the Mayor annually and advises as appropriate. For more information please access the DCPD website at http://bit.ly/DenverDCPD or email HRCPcommissions@Denvergov.org  

Denver Residents can try Lyft & Lime at a Discounted Price!

Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has partnered with Lyft and Lime to offer discounted passes for shared e-bikes and scooters. As part of this initiative, Denver residents have the chance to try out these convenient and eco-friendly modes of transportation at a reduced cost. With free Lime Prime and Lyft Pink passes, Denver residents can enjoy free unlocks for every ride, making it easier and more affordable to explore the city and reach your favorite destinations. There are a limited number of discount passes available and it’s first come, first served. Request a pass today by filling out the online form at: https://bit.ly/ccd-5280pass

Summer Rec Kidz

Starting June 10 - August 9 from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

This new summer program offers fun, themed activities for kids ages 8-12 each week. Weekly themes include Outdoor Survivor Challenge, Medieval Times, Bug’s Life, and much more! Registration required.

*Programs will not be held June 19th and July 4-5 for holidays.*

MY DENVER Afternoon

June 10 - August 16 | 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Stick around after Summer Rec Kidz! Kids 8+ can join an afternoon of fun enrichments, activities and even field trips offered by MY Denver. This program is drop-in, no registration required.

LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED.

FOR QUESTIONS, EMAIL MYDENVER.RECREATION@DENVERGOV.ORG 

Watering Restrictions from May to October

Follow these simple summer watering rules from May 1 to Oct. 1.

The watering rules incorporate best practices for efficient outdoor water use that will help keep your landscape healthy. It’s a simple way for you to help protect our water supply now and in the future.

• Water during cooler times of the day — lawn watering is NOT allowed between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• Water two days per week, adding a third day only when needed. (Watering more than three days is not allowed.)
• Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets and alleys.
• Do not waste water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt.
• Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
• Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.
• Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car.

Longer grass is more water efficient. Keep cool season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass between 2.5-3.5 inches and warm season grasses between 1-3 inches.

Report water waste

• If you see water waste in Denver parks, water use that does not meet the rules, call 3-1-1.
• To report water waste anywhere else, do one of the following:
• Fill out our Report Water Waste form online (available 24/7).
• Chat with us during business hours using the blue chat icon located in the lower right-hand corner of this page.
• Call Denver Water at 303-893-2444.

Vibrant Denver Survey

The Mayor's Office launched an online survey to gather your input on the types of public investments you'd like to see in our vibrant city center. It's quick and easy, so please take a moment to share your thoughts. This survey is just one of the ways they are gathering public feedback to create a dynamic downtown.

As part of Mayor Johnston’s Vibrant Denver initiative, they working to establish goals and criteria for downtown investment by year's end. Today, they're excited to announce a plan to allocate over $500 million to fuel economic growth downtown.

Business License Hearing Fund

Applications are now open for the Business License Hearing Fund, which will help entrepreneurs in the restaurant, bar and cannabis industries as they navigate their first year in business. Qualifying applicants who participated in a needs and desires hearing for certain types of licenses between Oct. 25, 2023, and June 30, 2024, can get reimbursed for legal costs related to the hearing. Applications open June 1 and the deadline to apply is June 30. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3WgYGwx

Check if you are Eligible for Property Tax Relief

Get a refund on your 2023 property taxes! If you live in Denver County and qualify for the Property Tax Relief Program, you can get an average refund of $1,000. You may qualify if you are:

• A renter or homeowner who is 65 or older
• A renters or homeowner who was disabled all of 2023
• A homeowner who lived with at least one dependent minor child in 2023

This program has income limits and other qualification requirements. Check to see if you qualify and apply at www.denvergov.org/propertytaxrelief

Expanded Public Participation Sign-Up Time

Recently, the council passed the update to the Rules of Procedure that not only expands the time to sign-up to speak but also offers the option of a more formal written testimony process. These changes take immediate effect and above is a handy chart!

Rent and Utility Assistance Available

Are you struggling to pay your rent or utilities? Are you worried about staying in your home? You’re not alone and it’s not your fault— one in three households in Denver is paying more than a third of their income toward housing. The Temporary Rent and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program is reopening applications in a new online portal beginning Jan. 2, 2024. Visit denvergov.org/RentHelp to learn more.

We also provide FREE tenant/landlord counseling and eviction legal assistance. Visit denvergov.org/EvictionHelp for more information about eviction legal clinics

The DA's June Scam Spotter

Beware of Contractor Fraud

While you can't anticipate all the issues involved with home repairs and contractors, there are steps you can take to avoid financial losses, project delays, and a contractor disappearing in the middle of a job. These steps include doing your research, getting multiple bids, and verifying the contractor's license and references. Complaints to law enforcement regarding door-to-door contractors escalate right after severe weather, or significant fire incidents. The most common complaints surround work not being completed, poor craftsmanship, excessive delays, and budgets that were exceeded without prior approval.

Community Events & Meetings

Cherry Creek North Summer Concert Series

Saturday June 15 & 29 2024

Kick this summer off with free, open-air concerts on Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek North as talented musicians and artists gather to showcase their skills every other Saturday in June. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you enjoy acoustic melodies in our beautiful outdoor setting. Don't miss out on this unique experience right in the heart of Cherry Creek North! For more info, visit: https://bit.ly/4bYQPIP

Cherry Creek Arts Festival

July 5-7, 2024

Cherry Creek North, 250 juried artists, culinary delights, and live performances!

Event Hours:

• Fri, July 5: 10 AM - 8 PM (Accessibility Hour: 9-10 AM)
• Sat, July 6: 10 AM - 8 PM
• Sun, July 7: 10 AM - 6 PM

No vehicle access on site during event hours. $3 parking at Cherry Creek Shopping Center. Public transport, bike, or ride share encouraged. For more info, visit: www.CherryArts.org

LUN Independence Day Celebration

Saturday, June 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To celebrate July 4 this year, LUN is taking the reins and hosting the Second Annual Lowry Independence Parade and Celebration at Tailwind Park, E. 5th Avenue and Alton Way in Lowry.

The pet and human parade will march around Tailwind Park on Saturday morning and will be led this year by the Denver Police Mounted Patrol ) and the Stilt-Man. Decorated pets, kids, bikes, strollers, wheeled vehicles, and adults are all welcome. Come early to decorate (9:30-10:00); free decorations provided. The streets around the park, Alton Way, E. 5th Avenue, and E. 4th Place, will be blocked off to accommodate the parade route. Prizes will be awarded in several categories, including cutest decorated dog, kid, and adult. Visit https://lowryunitedneighborhoods.org/ for more information.

Juneteenth Music Festival

On Saturday June 15th and Sunday June 16th, the Welton Street corridor will transform into an immersive, cultural treasure chest, hosting 200+ vendors including food trucks, merchants, and artisans. It is one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic celebrations of Juneteenth, right here in Denver. Juneteenth Music Festival is a family fun, safe event for all to enjoy boasting attractions such as an activated youth zone and block parties galore. Juneteenth Music Festival is free and open to the public. For more information visit

https://www.juneteenthmusicfestival.com/

Denver PrideFest 2024

Thursday, June 22, 2024 at 5:00 PM -10:00 PM

Experience the legacy as we kick off the weekend with the Pride 5K on Saturday, June 22, 2024, followed by the iconic two-day Denver PrideFest event at Civic Center Park boasting 250+ exhibitors, 30 food vendors, and captivating live performances. Sunday’s Coors Light PrideFest Parade flaunts colorful floats, marchers, music, and more, drawing over 100,000 spectators along 14 blocks of Colfax Avenue up to Civic Center Park, where day two celebrations continue. Come together to create an unforgettable experience as we honor 50 years of Denver Pride. For more information visit https://denverpride.org/fest/

2024 Taste of Mayfair Vendor Application

September 15, 2024

Hello friends! 

It’s that time of the year as we gear up for another special Taste of Mayfair event, and we are still in search of new vendors! For those who are not familiar with our event, it is a full day celebration, encompassing all that is great about not only Denver, but the local Mayfair neighborhood as well. While this event is primarily for vendors like you to sell their products, we also provide the opportunity to connect with like-minded people and enjoy all that the Mayfair neighborhood has to offer! We here at the Taste of Mayfair appreciate quality and creativity above everything else, and are looking for niche merchants who partake in activities ranging from woodworking, floristry, and knitting to those who supply food-based goods like fruit & veggie farmers, jam/jelly/honey producers, and gourmet services. If it sounds like your product would be a good fit for our event, we would love to see you there! Applications are submitted through our website @ www.tasteofmayfair.com and a response should be provided within 3-5 business days. We look forward to hearing from you!

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

View as Webpage