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February 26.2026

2 Minutes Read

Cole Neighborhood Sees Controversial Rezoning for New Affordable Apartments

Modern apartments in Cole neighborhood, potential rezoning area

Reimagining the Cole Neighborhood: A Balance of Growth and Community

The Cole neighborhood in Denver is at the precipice of transformation as the city council recently approved the rezoning of a block to accommodate a new 63-unit apartment complex. While the initiative is poised to provide affordable housing opportunities for those earning between 30% and 60% of the area's median income, it has sparked significant debate among local residents, particularly parents and homeowners.

Community Voices: Concern vs. Growth

Residents like Carmen Rivera voiced apprehensions that the new building, standing at four stories tall, would obstruct their views and alter the neighborhood's character. Rivera expressed her concern during the city council meeting, highlighting how the project could overshadow her home and diminish the sunlight that she currently enjoys. Similarly, Katie Hanna, a local resident, argued for a reduction in height to better fit the existing aesthetic of the neighborhood.

Balancing Needs: The Case for Affordable Housing

Despite the opposition, many in the community recognized the importance of affordable housing, particularly in a neighborhood that has faced significant displacement and gentrification. The Urban Land Conservancy (ULC), which has worked for eight years to bring this project to fruition, maintained that limiting the building's height to three stories would jeopardize key financing—which relies heavily on tax credits that favor denser developments. In fact, the project was awarded $2.1 million in funding last November, reflecting its viability as a necessary resource for community growth.

A Neighborhood Hub in the Making

Supporters of the project, including 33 voices at the council meeting, envision the new apartment complex as a potential community hub that could foster connections between residents and the nearby Tramway Nonprofit Center and Wyatt Academy. The hope is that this development will create a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood that attracts families and supports local nonprofits.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Inclusivity

As the construction begins this year, there is an underlying optimism that the Cole neighborhood can evolve while still honoring its roots. The journey to affordable housing is fraught with challenges, but this project represents a significant step toward inclusivity and community development. Engaging with local voices will remain vital as this neighborhood growth unfolds.

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02.26.2026

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02.26.2026

Denver Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing Amid Community Concerns

Update Denver's Growing Need for Affordable Housing The recent decision by the Denver City Council to rezone a block in the Cole neighborhood for the construction of a four-story, 63-unit apartment complex is part of a larger effort to address Denver's ongoing housing crisis. The site, owned by the Urban Land Conservancy (ULC), is set to cater to residents earning between 30% and 60% of the area's median income. With the sharp rise in housing costs, neighborhoods like Cole, which has faced significant gentrification and displacement, are in dire need of such developments. The Community's Mixed Reactions While the rezoning received crucial support from local officials, it has not been without controversy. Many neighbors, including concerned residents like Carmen Rivera and Katie Hanna, expressed anxiety about the scale and height of the new structure. Residents fear it will overshadow their homes and alter the neighborhood's character. This is an ongoing dilemma for communities balancing the pressing needs for affordable housing against the wishes of current residents who cherish their living environment. Financial Factors Behind the Project The rezoning was essential for securing approximately $2.1 million in low-income housing tax credits, funds that are crucial for making such projects financially viable. According to ULC’s spokesperson, Andrea Burns, any reduction in the building's size would jeopardize this financing, ultimately affecting the availability of affordable housing in the area. This highlights the complex interplay between zoning laws and financial viability in creating sustainable housing solutions. A Path Toward Community Integration Despite opposition from some residents, the project has received support from many community stakeholders. Twenty-one people spoke against it, while 33 voiced their support at the City Council meeting. This suggests a division but also the potential for a “mutually beneficial relationship” between the new households and existing community centers like the Tramway Nonprofit Center. With such institutions in proximity, the apartment complex could enhance local engagement and provide essential services to its residents. The Broader Implications for Denver's Housing Policies This development highlights an emerging trend in Denver, where policymakers are increasingly compelled to find solutions to the housing crisis while managing the diverse voices of the community. The ongoing discussions about zoning regulations and their impact on affordability may shape Denver’s future urban landscape significantly. As Cole continues to evolve, the challenge remains: how can cities promote inclusive growth without displacing long-term residents?

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Cole Neighborhood Sees Controversial Rezoning for New Affordable Apartments

Reimagining the Cole Neighborhood: A Balance of Growth and Community

Community Voices: Concern vs. Growth

Balancing Needs: The Case for Affordable Housing

A Neighborhood Hub in the Making

Conclusion: A Step Toward Inclusivity

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