On Monday, March 17, the Denver City Council approved a $1.5 million contract—an expansion of an existing $400,000 agreement, bringing the total to $1.9 million—for the 16th Street Activation project between the Downtown Denver Partnership and Denver Arts & Venues. This contract, backed by a super-majority of the council, will provide crucial funding to support the re-opening of 16th Street as the revitalization project approaches completion.
In collaboration with Denver Arts & Venues, the Downtown Denver Partnership will use the funds to host memorable events and activations, enhance safety and security measures, and create compelling opportunities for the community to experience 16th Street as a vibrant, world-class public space in the heart of downtown.
“The revitalization of 16th Street is more than just an investment in infrastructure—it’s a commitment to our community, our small businesses, and the future of Downtown Denver,” said District 10 Councilman Chris Hinds. “By prioritizing activation, accessibility, and safety, this contract ensures that 16th Street remains a welcoming and vibrant hub for all residents and visitors. I fully support this initiative as a step toward making Denver’s downtown a place where everyone can thrive.”
Funding will support an activation strategy that includes one-time events and event series throughout the summer, beginning with a 16th Street Summer Kick-off May 31 – June 1. Temporary and permanent installations that seek to further enliven 16th Street will also come to fruition under this contract. As we welcome people to experience the new 16th Street and these activations and installations, this contract also funds and enhances Downtown Denver Business Improvement District (BID) presence on 16th Street to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all.
“The re-opening of 16th Street represents years of hard work and investment by so many in our community—and it also represents an exciting new chapter for downtown Denver,” said Kourtny Garrett, president & CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership. “The expansion of the Downtown Denver Partnership’s contract with Denver Arts & Venues will allow us to meaningfully usher this new chapter in with vibrant activations including events, art, music and more that reflect the spirit of our city, inviting Denverites and the world to experience this reimagined, world-class public space. We’re grateful to Denver City Council for their approval today, and for recognizing the magnitude of the opportunities that exist for 16th Street and downtown in this moment.”
“We are thrilled to partner with DDP to welcome people back downtown to a revitalized 16th Street, which will be a hub for arts, culture and fun for residents and visitors alike,” said Denver Arts & Venues Executive Director Gretchen Hollrah.
For more information about the status of the 16th Street Mall project, click here.
