Denver's streets have undergone a visible transformation as Mayor Mike Johnston's All In Mile High initiative hit a significant benchmark this month. More than 2,000 individuals experiencing homelessness have been moved into housing, a goal that was achieved ahead of schedule. With collaboration between city agencies, the City Council, and community partners, this initiative is tackling what's been described as one of the city’s most pressing issues.
Initiated immediately following Mayor Johnston's emergency declaration on homelessness in July 2023, the initiative's efforts have resulted in the closure of 18 large encampments and the prohibition of camping across more than 350 blocks downtown. Currently, large encampments have been eradicated from the City and County of Denver. "You don’t need us to tell you that All In Mile High has been a success. You can just go downtown and see for yourself," Mayor Johnston said, as per the City and County of Denver. He emphasized that the solution was not just moving people around but providing "the dignity and compassion that comes with having your own bed and the support needed to improve your circumstance."
Statistics show a promising trend with 83% of those housed remaining indoors, and 36% have gone on to secure permanent housing. This surpassed everyone's expectations when the Point-In-Time count in January 2024 highlighted Denver's largest ever year-over-year decline in unsheltered homelessness.
The impact on safety and well-being in the downtown area has not gone unnoticed. "Our members tell us they feel significantly safer in downtown Denver since the mayor's concerted efforts to address the homelessness crisis," said Carly West, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, as obtained by the City and County of Denver. West praised the mayor not only for addressing immediate safety concerns but also for providing vital resources that encourage a break from the cycle of homelessness. The chamber views this initiative as a boon for the whole community, not merely a reshuffling of a persistent issue.
