5.2 Federal District, Denver, Colorado

5.2 FEDERAL DISTRICT, DENVER, COLORADO

The area around the federal buildings in Denver, Colorado, was viewed by many as not only lacking a clear identity overall, but also confusing in terms of the location of specific buildings. In addition, the area was perceived as blocking -- rather than connecting -- the downtown business district and the residential neighbourhood beyond.

The GSA, working with local designers and area stakeholders, created a concept for a federal "district." Key to the plan were short-term changes that would make the area a friendlier, more pedestrian-oriented place. These machinations included both physical amenities, such as benches, plantings, and lighting, as well as management changes for the public areas. The lobby and plaza of one of the buildings in the District, the Byron White Federal Courthouse, were scheduled to be improved as part of GSA's First Impressions program.

Using this project as an impetus, short-term improvements were made to the property while the larger plans were being finalized. The Denver GSA building managers leapt into action and purchased different types of benches that they could install and evaluate in terms of materials, location, and other elements. They also planted flowers in the stone security planters located along the perimeter of the plaza, added lights to the trees to enhance the area in the evenings, and scheduled events in the plaza. The changes were well received and gave the managers encouragement to continue their efforts.

Figure 5.2.1 Federal Building before plaza Figure 5.2.2 Federal Building after plaza