Denver City Council took a step toward creating a “theater district” downtown Monday, giving initial approval to a zoning category that would allow for more prominent signs.
The move is part of the city’s plan to draw more people to the area around 14th and Curtis streets near the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
The proposed new zoning class would allow off-premise signs and banners.
“I think it will bring a lot more attention and visibility to the area,” said Councilwoman Carla Madison, who represents the area.
Councilman Charlie Brown praised the new zoning as “a great idea,” but he warned that public art often draws controversy.
“Signage is public art,” he said. “And with public art there will be people who like and people who don’t like it, so get ready for that.”
The new zoning passed unanimously Monday on its first time through council. There will be a public hearing and another vote on the issue before it is adopted.
Meanwhile, a plan to establish a $250,000 endowment for public-access television was adopted over the objections of Councilwoman Jeanne Faatz.
Faatz chided her colleagues, saying the funds could be used to pay for other services.
“At a time when we are going to be thinking about asking citizens to raise taxes,” Faatz said, referencing a bond issue and property-tax increase expected on the November ballot, “it certainly isn’t the time to give money away for a very low priority.”
But Councilwoman Carol Boigon said the money would go for programs such as scholarships for local students.
The plan passed 10-3 with Faatz and Councilmen Brown and Michael Hancock in dissent.
