Denver’s City Council is moving to protect local merchants from the inevitable disruptions of major construction projects. After the multi‑year rebuild of Colfax Avenue left many storefronts struggling, councilmembers are proposing a permanent Business Impact Opportunity Program that would expand grant funding, technical help, and tax relief for eligible businesses.
Current grant program shows promise
Since 2022, the city’s business impact fund has disbursed more than $2 million in one‑time grants of up to $15,000. While the assistance has helped many establishments stay open, owners like Obeid Kaido of Shish Kabob Grill say the timing and size of the grants fell short of their needs. “It was such an insult,” Kaido told Denverite in May, expressing disappointment that the grant arrived after his restaurant had already felt the pinch of reduced foot traffic.
Council’s plan to make aid permanent
Councilmembers Diana Romero‑Campbell, Amanda Sawyer, Flor Alvidrez, and Chris Hinds are sponsoring an ordinance to codify the program. The proposal would set aside a dedicated portion of the general fund each year, allowing the city to issue larger grants—up to 10 % of annual gross revenue for businesses earning $100,000 or less, and a minimum of $15,000 for larger firms. In addition, the ordinance would permit the city to cover tax liabilities for businesses directly impacted by construction.
Funding challenges addressed
Funding the expanded program would come from Denver’s general fund, which is beginning to recover after several years of deficits. Sawyer emphasized that the council is not looking to raise a new sales tax. “We have been told no at every turn when we have tried to make a determination of a dedicated funding source,” she said, noting that the general fund remains the most realistic source.
Looking ahead to upcoming projects
The city is preparing for additional large‑scale infrastructure work, including new bus rapid transit (BRT) lines on Federal and Colorado Boulevards. Those projects are overseen by the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Federal government, meaning the state and federal partners will bear responsibility for supporting affected businesses. Sawyer stressed the importance of collaboration: “If they want to come in and do that construction project, we are happy to be their partner, but they should recognize that they need to contribute to the support of the small businesses they’re impacting.”
Council votes signal strong support
The Finance and Business Committee approved the ordinance without dissent, and a full‑council vote is slated for next month. If passed, Denver would join a growing number of municipalities that proactively safeguard local economies during essential public works.
What this means for Denver families
By ensuring that family‑run restaurants, retail shops, and service providers receive timely financial relief, the city upholds its commitment to traditional families and the free‑enterprise spirit that fuels community prosperity. The program’s emphasis on grant flexibility and tax assistance reflects a practical, faith‑inspired approach to helping neighbors weather temporary hardships while keeping the city’s streets vibrant and thriving.
Original reporting: Denverite — read the source article.
