Denver's ambitions for the Park Hill neighborhood are poised to create lasting change, as the city launches its action plan process. This strategic effort aims to address key concerns such as affordable housing, reducing involuntary displacement, and revitalizing local businesses in conjunction with the creation of Park Hill Park.
This new urban park, at the site of the former Park Hill Golf Course, is projected to span 155 acres, becoming one of Denver's largest. The city, following residents' approval, envisions a space to satisfy both recreational needs and more pragmatic community concerns, like healthy food access and improved safety measures. As reported by the City and County of Denver, the Community Planning and Development Department is steering this initiative, with a nod to the foundational goals laid out the previous year in the Park Hill Golf Course Small Area Plan.
Mayor Mike Johnston has emphasized the city's commitment to incorporating community input, stating, "This is more than building a park, it’s about building a future with the community, for the community," as per the City and County of Denver. He further clarified the city's intentions to ensure that the development is reflective of the residents' aspirations, particularly in terms of providing critical infrastructural provisions for the neighborhoods involved.
The plan will be put into motion through a series of outreach events, beginning with a Park Visioning Open House scheduled for June 7. Council members Shontel M. Lewis and Darrell Watson are advocating for this inclusive approach. Lewis, as obtained by the City and County of Denver, proffered, "Let me be clear, for this project we are starting at zero. We intentionally have not committed to anything because we want to ensure that every step in this process is prioritizing the needs of our Park Hill neighbors." Watson echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of a community-led future for the Park Hill Park and its environs.
