The City of Denver celebrated the reopening of three more blocks along the iconic 16th Street Mall this Thursday, marking another step forward in the municipality's extensive rehabilitation project for the renowned downtown corridor. As Denver7 reports, this latest development opens the stretch between Larimer and Wazee streets, providing further accessibility and continuity to the busy thoroughfare.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston expressed his optimism during the opening, explicitly stating, "Today is another really significant moment for our city." He also underscored the Mall's longstanding identity within Denver, inviting both past and future generations to experience its renewed charm. Kourtny Garrett, the president, and CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership, resonated with the mayor's sentiments, having earlier remarked that the multi-year project aimed to not only improve traffic infrastructure and safety but to also draw people back to the heart of downtown Denver. Nevertheless, some locals still maintain a cautious outlook on the advancements. According to KDVR, the cleanliness was noticeable post-renovation, but it remains to be seen how the improvements will truly affect the area's safety over time.
Adeeb Khan, executive director of Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, highlighted the significance of the 16th Street Mall to the local economy. In comments he made at Thursday's celebration, as per Denver Business Journal, Khan called the small businesses lining the Mall "the lifeblood of our economy, the backbone of our community and the essence of what makes our downtown vibrant and unique."
The sentiment was shared by Julian Tucker, general manager of the Thompson Denver Hotel, who humorously remarked during the opening ceremony, "We're so excited that this project is coming to an end. ... For my friends at PCL Construction, I love all of you guys, but I wish to never see you again." According to the Denver Business Journal, this event signifies another milestone for the city by welcoming visitors back to what officials have termed the heart of downtown Denver. The proprietor of Little Finch informed KDVR that despite enduring two difficult years due to construction activities, the enhancements have fostered a safer environment for her employees.
