Denver City Council Advances Key DDDA Initiatives

Denver City Council took significant steps forward on Monday, September 22, to strengthen downtown revitalization efforts through the Denver Downtown Development Authority (DDDA). 

Expanded Leadership Structure Council approved expanding the DDDA board from five to seven members, providing additional expertise and perspectives to guide downtown development initiatives. This expansion keeps the authority within state statute limits, which allows for up to 11 board members.  

Council also confirmed the appointments of two new board members: Mary Nguyen and Patty Salazar, who will bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the DDDA's strategic direction. 

First Project Approvals Move Forward In a major milestone for the renewed and expanded DDDA, Council advanced a first round of DDDA projects for final approval. The five projects represent half of the DDDA's inaugural project portfolio and are scheduled for final Council approval on Monday, September 29. 

Upon approval, the DDDA will issue retail incentive loans to four local businesses: Green Spaces, Denver Immersive Repertory Theatre, Milk Tea People, and Sundae Ice Cream. Additionally, the DDDA will purchase the Brookfield-owned parking lots at Denver Pavilions, creating new opportunities for catalytic development. 

Looking Ahead The remaining five projects in this first tranche (Skyline Park, Civic Center Park, McNichols Building, University Building, and Symes Building) will come before City Council for approval early this fall, maintaining momentum for comprehensive downtown improvements through the DDDA. 

For more information, including the latest news, visit denvergov.org/DDA.