Denver’s Globeville Neighborhood Begins $2.5 Million Street Overhaul

Denver’s Globeville neighborhood has commenced a significant reconstruction project on Washington Street, aiming to enhance infrastructure, safety, and connectivity over the next three years. The initiative, valued at approximately $2.5 million, will focus on the stretch of Washington Street from E. 47th Avenue to Denver’s northern boundary at E. 52nd Avenue.

Residents of Globeville have long expressed frustrations about the condition of their streets. Local resident Cristina Dominguez Espinoza highlighted the challenges, stating, “This area is very old. They haven’t fixed our streets. There are holes everywhere.” Espinoza, whose brother owns the popular Taqueria El Valle located directly on Washington Street, noted the heavy traffic and lack of traffic lights, which have led to frequent accidents outside their restaurant.

The reconstruction will introduce modern pedestrian and bicycle facilities, redesigned intersections, expanded right-of-way, and new utilities to support Denver’s growth. “This street is about to be transformed, truly transformed,” said Amy Ford, Executive Director of the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure.

This project is not merely about roadwork; it reflects a broader commitment to community needs. Darrell Watson, District 9 Denver City Councilmember, emphasized, “This is actually providing the outcomes of the ask of this community. It’s ensuring that we as a city deliver on the promises that we have made.”

Community discussions regarding improvements in Globeville have been in progress for over a decade. A proposed neighborhood plan from 2014 included residents’ suggestions for better connectivity, increased investments, and cleaner streets. Earlier this month, local news outlet Denver7 reported on a community gathering where residents voiced their concerns about potential displacement due to new development and urged city officials to listen to their needs.

The Transfiguration Orthodox Cathedral, a cornerstone of the Globeville community since 1898, has witnessed the neighborhood’s evolution. Father Seraphim Robertson noted the correlation between the church’s prosperity and that of the neighborhood. He recalled a time in the 1980s when the church considered relocating, but ultimately decided to remain, fostering improvements that benefited both the church and the surrounding area.

Reflecting on the upcoming changes, Father Robertson expressed optimism about the future. “The church has begun to thrive again. And it’s encouraging to see signs that maybe the neighborhood is on the way up as well, in certain ways,” he stated.

As the reconstruction of Washington Street unfolds, residents and local businesses alike are hopeful that these upgrades will lead to a more vibrant, connected community, paving the way for further development and improvement in Globeville.