Meeting Seconds

Editor’s Note: The following is a synopsis of what was discussed during the January Greater Park Hill Community monthly meeting. The next meeting, which is open to the public, is Thursday, Feb. 6 beginning at 6:30 p.m., 2823 Fairfax St.

District 2 Police Update

There was no update this month on specific incidences in Park Hill. However, neighbors are reminded that they should contact District 2 to report non-emergencies at 720-913-2000. The 9-1-1 emergency number should be used to report only crimes in progress.

Park Hill Traffic Concerns

Park Hill residents Brian Rodeno and Barbara Redmond presented a report on a dramatic spike in traffic in Park Hill since 2010. While the population of the neighborhood has remained static, the growth of Stapleton and Lowry has resulted in increased traffic throughout Park Hill. Rodeno and Redmond noted the increased traffic negatively impacts quality of life and creates safety problems, particularly for families with young children. With continued growth in Stapleton and Lowry to the east, as well as the Fitzsimmons Campus, and the opening of Trader Joe’s and the redevelopment of the Hospital District to the south, traffic is likely to continue to increase in Park Hill. Following the presentation, the board agreed to write a letter to Denver Public Works asking the city to conduct a comprehensive traffic study of Park Hill, as well as support traffic calming measures for neighborhood streets that have witnessed an increase in traffic.

City Loop Update

Hank Bootz, a representative of the organization Stop City Loop, provided an update on Denver’s plan to build a $5 million regional activity and play area to replace the Dustin Redd playground in City Park. The proposal was temporarily put on hold following the protests of many living in surrounding neighborhoods, including Park Hill. Following the presentation and discussion, the board adopted a resolution asking the City Parks and Recreation Department to conduct an open process to evaluate the project, including parking, traffic and maintenance studies, and seek additional community input before proceeding further. The board also voted to appoint representatives from GPHC to help evaluate the project.

Committee Chair and Community Updates

Home Tour Committee Chair Nina Kuhl noted the date of the Home Tour will not be finalized until the Broncos’ schedule is published in April, to avoid conflicting dates with home games. Kuhl also reported that Park Hill will once again have a coordinated Community Garage Sale this year, likely scheduled to occur the first weekend in May.

 

Building Committee Chair Louis Plachowski noted plans to inspect the roof at GPHC to determine whether there are any repairs needed.

 

Zoning/Property Use Committee Chair Bernadette Kelly said there has been some interest in a GPHC construction committee to review scrape/build-out/remodel projects in the neighborhood. She noted that GPHC, as well as the City, cannot dictate “taste”; it can only enforce zoning and building codes and any requirements of designated Historic Districts.

Executive Director Report

Executive Director Robyn Fishman reported that Denver Urban Gardens will distribute free seeds and seedlings ready for transplant this year to residents who want to plant gardens. Application forms are available at GPHC. Also, Denver Digs will be giving away free trees. Deadline for applications is Feb. 15; contact Robyn at director@greaterparkhill.org for more info.