Denver’s Mayor Folds Over Mico-Community

After weeks of negative feedback from businesses and people who live in the neighborhood, Denver's mayor has decided to nix the proposal for a micro-community site at 5500 E. Yale Avenue.

The decision to move off one of the proposed micro-community sites is a victory for local businesses and residents who have been fiercely opposed to this plan.

Residents and businesses have been vocal about their concerns regarding the location of these micro-community sites from the start. They have argued that placing them in commercial areas and near general services would create a more concentrated and potentially dangerous situation. The proximity to public transit would also make it easier for individuals to come and go, raising concerns about potential crime and safety issues.

It is refreshing to see Mayor Johnston acknowledge and address these valid concerns. While the city is still moving forward with other proposed sites, they are taking the community feedback seriously and are committed to finding viable locations for these micro-communities.

According to a spokesperson from the mayor's office, the decision to nix the proposed site at 5500 E. Yale Avenue was based on the criteria provided by the community and deemed not to be a viable option at this time. However, the city will continue to work with the community and city council to identify a more suitable location in District 4.

READ MORE:

• MICRO-COMMUNITY: A CONTROVERSIAL SOLUTION TO THE HOMELESSNESS CRISIS

• DENVER MOVES FORWARD WITH HOMELESS COMMUNITY DESPITE CONTROVERSY

• DENVER CONSIDERING A QUARTER OF MILLION DOLLAR SOCIAL EXPERIMENT STUDY

• DENVER’S HOMELESS GIVE CITY LEADERS AN EARFUL

This is all part of Mayor Johnston's larger plan to bring 1,000 people experiencing homelessness indoors before the end of the year. While the decision to nix this site may delay this goal, it is crucial to ensure that these micro-communities are in areas that are safe for both the residents and the surrounding neighborhood.

Pre-construction efforts are underway at 2301 S. Santa Fe Dr., 12033 E. 38th Ave., and set to begin soon at 1375 N. Elati St.