00:00:00 Introduction Vicki Eppler
00:04:36 Current Overlay Proposal
00:15:23 Rob Haigh CPD, Unlocking Housing Choices
00:30:13 Questions and Answers
01:01:46 Conclusion and announcements

Congress Park Conservation Overlay Proposal

Victoria presented a conservation overlay proposal for Congress Park, which aims to limit the scale and mass of new construction through specific zoning requirements. The proposal includes restrictions on roof heights, front porches, first-floor elevations, and building materials for new single-unit, two-unit, and row house structures. Victoria emphasized that the overlay is not an HOA or historic preservation measure, but rather a zoning code that applies only to new construction and additions. The proposal is still open for discussion and will be presented to neighbors for feedback.

Citywide Zoning for Housing Diversity

The meeting discussed the “Unlocking Housing Choices” project, a citywide zoning code update aimed at increasing housing diversity, particularly middle housing options (2-9 units) in Denver. Rob Hague, a senior city planner, explained that while this project doesn’t achieve all goals of the Congress Park conservation overlay, it aligns with Blueprint Denver and East Central Neighborhood Plan policies. The project aims to allow more 2-4 unit developments in low residential areas while maintaining neighborhood character, with potential outcomes including new housing options, on-site affordability requirements, and preservation of existing housing types. The team recommended completing this citywide project before proceeding with the Congress Park overlay to avoid potential code conflicts.

Project Timeline and Community Engagement

Rob presented a timeline for a project targeting completion by the end of 2026, with an advisory committee of 20-25 people being assembled by the end of the month. Victoria inquired about outreach to neighborhoods and the process for community input, which Rob explained would include focus groups, open community meetings, and a newsletter with surveys. Rob confirmed that the final proposal would be presented to City Council for adoption at the end of 2026, with Council members Flynn and Torres representing the council on the advisory committee.

Congress Park Middle Housing Plan

The discussion focused on middle housing implementation in the Congress Park neighborhood, where Rob explained that while specific details like unit counts and height restrictions haven’t been finalized, the plan guidance suggests 2-4 units in the east central area, with an emphasis on allowing house-sized, house-shaped structures that accommodate multiple units. Charlotte pointed out that many areas currently contain existing multi-unit housing forms like duplexes and basement apartments, which Rob acknowledged through their GIS analysis and historical zoning research, noting their goal is to reintroduce flexibility that was previously allowed in the city.

Congress Park Housing Plan Discussion

The group discussed a housing choices plan and Congress Park overlay, with Rob explaining that while the housing plan would come first, Congress Park could inform its design. Jon inquired about the project’s scope and timeline, with Rob clarifying it would be a series of comprehensive tweaks rather than a complete rewrite, targeting completion by 2026. Victoria raised concerns about lot coverage limitations in Congress Park, and Rob confirmed this was under discussion as a tool to address neighborhood character. The group also discussed parking requirements, with Rob noting that a current text amendment could remove parking requirements for new development, and Nora suggested working on a conservation overlay simultaneously to address concerns about older homes being demolished.

Conservation Overlay and Neighborhood Planning

The meeting focused on a proposed conservation overlay and neighborhood planning efforts. Victoria explained that progress depends on Council’s support, which is currently pending until planning makes a move. Jon emphasized that Council holds the final decision-making power, regardless of neighborhood input. Rob discussed the “missing middle” housing concept, noting that while there’s no requirement for units to be for sale or rent, for-sale products may be more common due to their easier marketability. The group agreed to educate neighbors about the upcoming neighborhood plan and conduct a survey to gauge understanding and concerns. Victoria announced an upcoming ice cream social on August 1st and encouraged volunteers to sign up for various roles.