In March, Mayor Mike Johnston announced that Globeville and Elyria-Swansea would receive $35.5 million in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) grant. The projects, including new pedestrian bridges, a greenway corridor, and environmental remediation of a former landfill, are set to begin construction in 2025. These developments aim to improve transportation infrastructure and address community needs in the National Western Center and CSU Spur areas.
While this funding represents a significant step forward, we at the Green House have concerns. Community leaders like Caroline Acha of Tepeyac Community Health Center have pointed out the long history of disinvestment in these neighborhoods and emphasized the importance of improving walkability and reducing pollution, both of which are critical for residents’ health. However, it’s essential that these projects directly address the needs of the people who live here.
Harmony Cummings, expressed concern that these projects aren’t what the community has been asking for. According to Harmony, residents often talk about the need for better sidewalks and bike lanes that would allow them to connect with the places they need to go, not just the National Western Center. The concern is that these projects might prioritize the needs of developers over the everyday needs of the people who live in these neighborhoods.
It’s important that we stay vigilant, ensuring these projects truly serve the residents of Globeville and Elyria-Swansea and aren’t just another example of infrastructure that leaves them behind.
Find the full article from the GES Gazette HERE
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