Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper today issued a letter to Denver residents pledging that the Democratic National Convention wouldn’t unduly inconvenience city residents and workers.
Hickenlooper said that while the convention is expected to attract 50,000 visitors to the city between Aug. 23 and Aug. 28, the city will be able to accommodate them.
He noted that the city in the past has hosted games in all three downtown stadiums, attracting more than 150,000 people.
Downtown restaurants will be open for business during the convention, he added. He stressed that those attending the convention will be on the convention floor between 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Downtown residents will be able to get to their homes, although some additional security and screening measures will be in place, the mayor said in the letter.
Hickenlooper said downtown traffic will have modest impacts and that workers should not have trouble getting to and from work.
“We plan to provide the most effective and comprehensive security possible while maintaining an event that is inclusive and enjoyable,” the mayor said.
He further stressed the city successfully accommodated as many as 100,000 people for a rally in 2006. In contrast, Boston attracted 10,000 demonstrators for the 2004 Democratic National Convention, the mayor said.
Christopher N. Osher: 303-954-1747 or cosher@denverpost.com
