BACKGROUND
In November 2004, voters in the Denver Metropolitan Region passed the “FasTracks” ballot measure. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is using sales tax revenues to fund the expansion plan of six new transit lines by 2015. FasTracks provides major opportunities for redevelopment and change in the stations areas.
The City and County of Denver (Denver) is poised to take a significant leadership role in both implementing the new transit lines and focusing growth into neighborhoods and areas near some 40 transit stations. The Department of Community Planning and Development (CPD) in conjunction with partners including Public Works, the Office of Economic Development (OED), RTD and others, is conducting a major planning initiative to facilitate appropriate redevelopment near current and future station locations. Two of the stations selected for the first round of station area plans include 10th and Osage and Decatur. These stations are in close proximity to Denver Housing Authority developments which provides a unique opportunity to create a vision for a future mixed income housing model. The Office of Economic Development facilitates the redevelopment of viable urban neighborhoods by providing quality affordable housing, an enhanced living environment, and expanded economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents. OED is poised to work with neighborhoods to assist in the development of equitable development and housing.
The Denver Housing Authority’s (DHA) mission is to promote adequate and affordable housing, economic opportunity, and a suitable living environment free from discrimination in Denver. DHA’s South Lincoln Park Homes and Sun Valley Homes are both located within a quarter mile of station areas. South Lincoln Park Homes is adjacent to the existing 10th and Osage transit station and Sun Valley Homes is located near the future Decatur Station, which is part of the West Corridor line. The City of Denver recently purchased from RTD 2.5 acres next to 10th and Osage light rail station.
ADVISORY COMMITTEES
CPD, OED and DHA are collaborating with Front Range Economic Strategy Center, Making Connections-Denver, Metropolitan Organizations for People and Project Wise to develop a community engagement initiative for DHA residents through the establishment of Resident Advisory Committees (RAC). The RAC is made up of DHA residents and members of the surrounding community. There is a unique opportunity for DHA residents to influence the future quality of life for DHA residents of the La Alma Lincoln Park and Sun Valley neighborhoods.
Through a series of 8 meetings and a community wide public event independently facilitated by The National Civic League the RAC and the larger population has shared the point of view, needs, and concerns of DHA residents and community members that will be considered in the station areas plans and through potential future redevelopment of the DHA sites. Additionally the RAC meetings have provided members an opportunity to discuss issues and concerns directly with decision makers.
The primary purpose of the RAC is to advise City and DHA staff and provide insights and perspective into the station area planning as it relates to South Lincoln Park Homes and Sun Valley Homes. The RAC has functioned solely as an advisory body, however it is envisioned that should future development occur members of the RAC will continue as part of a larger group in an advisory capacity to the DHA development process.
Material from October 20th Public Meeting:
Resident Advisory Committee (RAC) Identified Issues: