Gosia Kung, WalkDenver

1. people are pedestrians by design
join the movement at www.walkdenver.org

2. www.walkdenver.org
2 miles
How far will you walk ?
3/4 mile
1/4-1/2 mile
20 feet???
HEALTH
 Physical
 Mental
 Environmental
 Community
 Economic

3. The “Better Block” project is a
community revitalization effort that
temporarily demonstrates how to
improve a public space with pedestrian
and public infrastructure mixed with art,
culture, pop-up businesses and street
life. For one day, the project fills vacant
storefronts, creates pedestrian seating
areas, provides landscaping and street
furniture, redraws the street, provides
live music, and more. Better Block aims
to create quick, inexpensive, high-
impact changes that lead to permanent
solutions for areas in Denver.
The concept is based on “Better Block
Project originated in Dallas, TX
BETTER BLOCK

4. www.walkdenver.org
before Better Block Project

5. www.walkdenver.org
before Better Block Project

8. www.walkdenver.org
before Better Block Project

10. www.walkdenver.org
 March 16, 2012 – 2914 Coffee Shop
opened eliminating long lasting “coffee
desert” in the area
 Business Improvement District has been
formed
 Federal BID is applying for funds to
implement streetscape improvements
demonstrated during Better Block
 Vacancy rate dropped from 80% to 10%
 Historic Granada theater has been
renovated
 Renovation of the historic building at 25th
and Elliot - two new restaurants to open
in 2014
 3 new restaurants have already opened
in the area
 New fitness center has opened
 New B-cycle station
 New bike lane added to 23rd Ave
 Neighborhood group organized summer
concert series in the park
 People shop locally more often
 New playground equipment and first
Denver playground to have a “no
adult allowed unless accompanied
by a child” policy.
 Benches and picnic tables providing
adults with places to sit other than
the playground.
 Newly resurfaced basketball court.
 Lighting and electrical outlets for
future events.
 Flowerbeds, trash receptacles, chess
tables, Ping-Pong tables, fitness
equipment and community bulletin
board.
 Art programs in the park

11. LOW COST
BETTER BLOCK
HIGH IMPACT
SUSTAINABILITY