Mayor Hancock’s State of the City Address Celebrates Accomplishments, Looks to the Future
On Monday, July 16th, Mayor Michael B. Hancock gave his State of the City address, honoring accomplishments and looking towards future opportunities to strengthen our city. Mayor Hancock’s speech addressed the positive and challenging aspects of growth, and focused on topics related to affordable housing, gentrification and equity, mobility, parks, climate change, and the opioid epidemic.
Mayor Hancock discussed his administration’s investment in “social justice, access to opportunity and promoting equity in our communities, particularly in times of prosperity.” He reviewed improvements in unemployment rates, affordable housing, economic growth, safety, and parks over the past year.
With notable accomplishments to celebrate, the Mayor acknowledged important work yet to be done. Hancock noted Denver’s need for growth in terms of equity and inclusivity and the importance of bolstering affordable housing options. As our city grows, change must be made mindfully in order to ensure inclusive growth. The Downtown Denver Partnership will continue to work closely with the City on innovative approaches to affordable housing and inclusivity through programs such as LIVE Denver.
Mayor Hancock also referenced Denver’s commitment to an affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy future. The 80×50 Climate Action Plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% before 2050 and to meet 100% of the City’s energy needs with renewable energy by 2030. Plans and initiatives that address parks, public safety, mobility, and mental illness and substance misuse will be unveiled in the coming months.
The Downtown Denver Partnership is looking forward to working with the mayor and our partners at the City to address these pressing issues. It is imperative that we work to effectively meet the needs of our growing community in regard to housing, mobility, and the 16th Street Mall redevelopment.
Read a full transcript of Mayor Hancock’s State of the City address here and view a detailed recap here.