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ICONIC COLFAX BUILDING UP FOR POSSIBLE REDEVELOPMENT By Jacob Karp The future of the Depression Era, Art Deco style Colfax building that once housed the self-proclaimed world’s largest coin operated laundromat is once again up for debate. Built in 1932 at 1018 E. Colfax as a store front and residence, the building is most famous for its tenure as Smiley’s Laundromat, which at one time boasted over 350 total washer and dryer units and was regarded as a cultural icon of the Colfax corridor. Today the three story mixed-use building is owned and operated by Consolidated Investment Group (CIG) and is home to apartment units on the upper two levels, with a Subway and a recently closed dental office occupying the street level. CIG’s original redevelopment plans called for the retention of the building and the construction of an adjacent new building between 5-8 stories, though the possibility of complete demolition of the building had not been ruled out. In May CIG filed for a Certificate of Non-Historic Status, which if granted would have provided a five-year window during which demolition could occur without further community notification or historic review. As part of this process, a public 21-day posting period to determine historic status was initiated. Though not currently deemed a historic landmark or preservation site, the building is listed as being state eligible for the landmark registration process and was ultimately found to meet the requirements which preliminarily deemed it historic in nature. According to John Olson, Director of Preservation Programs at Historic Denver, the requirements for such a designation of
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Brecklyn and Makenna flash giant smiles as they enjoy funnel cake and corn on the cob at the People’s Fair last month. PHOTO BY JEFF HERSCH
a building are that it be at least 30 years old and meet history, geography and architecture parameters. In the case of Smiley’s all requirements were met. Additionally, the posting period garnered a lot of public and neighborhood support for the salvation of the building. “The public really came to bat during the non-historic appeal,” said Olson. “The neighborhood is very supportive of retaining the historic nature, but also creating something new and vibrant for the area.” As such, the building developers withdrew the filing and the building has been temporarily saved. This designation will allow for ongoing discussions between Historic Denver, Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN) and Consolidated Investment Group to find a
By Jason McKinney Are you looking for a way to beat the heat on America’s birthday weekend? Or would you rather be outside in the sweltering temperatures? Maybe, you’re just wanting to see some fireworks and attempt to avoid the crowds in the process. Either way, Denver (and beyond) has plenty to offer for every taste over the July 4th weekend; unfortunately, no promises about those crowds. After all, everybody does love a good fireworks display.
INDEPENDENCE EVE FIREWORKS Sun., July 3, 8 p.m. Civic Center Park, Broadway & Colfax The Independence Eve Celebration in Civic Center Park will
creative solution that supports both old and new. According to Olson, conversations have been positive in nature and the hope is that an agreement can be made to allow for necessary modifications and redevelopment while maintaining Smiley’s as a recognizable historic asset. Constructed for $85,000 at the corner of Colfax and Downing during the Depression Era, the building quickly became a popular community mainstay as its commercial tenants offered essential goods and services. The building was originally home to a produce stand, bakery, grocery store, and beauty parlor and later a restaurant and physician’s office. continued on page 21
feature a free concert, a light show on the Denver City and County Building and a fireworks finale. Lawn seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and blankets or low-rise concert/beach chairs are permitted. Personal picnics are also allowed at the event, though concessions will be available. Parking is available at nearby surface lots and parking garages. For more information, go to denver.org.
LIBERTY RUN & FIRECRACKER KIDS FUN RUN Mon., July 4, 8:30 am (Liberty Run) & 10 am (Fun Run) Washington Park ,1000 S. Downing continued on page 27
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