Eventually, Discover Denver will survey the buildings in each of Denver’s neighborhoods. The following areas have been identified for survey during the next phase of the project, expected to begin in Summer 2022:
- Five Points
- Skyland
- Clayton
- Whittier
- Valverde
- Barnum
- Barnum West
- Villa Park
Residents and business owners will experience minimal – if any – impact from volunteer surveyors working in the survey areas. Survey volunteers observe a property from the public street or sidewalk, taking notes on its physical integrity (whether or not the building retains its historic features). Volunteers will have project-specific identification and should identify themselves to you if asked. No one associated with Discover Denver will enter or access your property without your permission.
The survey is gathering information about all Denver buildings using public records, neighborhood canvassing, academic research, and tips from the public. Findings from the survey will later be accessible online so that everyone can learn about Denver’s past — building by building.
Historic Denver, Inc. and the City and County of Denver lead this project, funded mainly by a Colorado State Historical Fund grant.
Denver joins other major cities, including Los Angeles and Phoenix, that are conducting building surveys. Project benefits include:
- Uncovering buildings of historic and architectural significance
- Providing property owners up-front information about buildings to inform reinvestment and sale decisions
- Equipping city planners with information about historic resources when creating neighborhood plans
- Bolstering civic pride
Community input is key to the success of the project! Tell us your stories about buildings throughout the city here.
