MARCH 2016 \ BUILDING DIALOGUE \
23
those leaders who are
emerging into positions
of influence in Colorado’s
policy, development and
economic future, what
advice would you give them?
Peña:
Harness intellectual
capital to fix the public school
system.
Public education is
the
most important issue and is
critical to our future. We need
to make it the No. 1priority.
The National Western is im-
portant. DIA redevelopment
is important. Building a robust
transit system is important.
But the most important oppor-
tunity is education. It matters to
our economy, to our population and our viability. We need
institutions, businesses, civic organizations and community
members to come together to solve the problems of public
education, to make education relevant and future-focused.
The commitments to public education need to be broad and
community based. We also need leaders who can make this
a priority and help shape our education system to meet the
needs of the future today. It’s not any one city official or an
outsider who can energize the community; it has to come
from across and within the broader community.
Invest in planning.
We have lost a focus on the importance
of city planning and we need to return to a sensible, bal-
anced, vision-led planning model for Denver and the Front
Range. One that is sustainable, long-range and looks to the
future. Without a sound planning strategy, we’re at risk for a
boom and bust cycle.
Lastly, think broadly.
Continue to focus on the economy,
embrace diversity and reach globally.
Continue to invest in our infrastructure and in our part-
nerships. We need to cooperate regionally on issues such as
transportation and water.
\\
Leading the Way
RECREATION &
CLUBHOUSES
PLANNING &
ENTITLEMENTS
MULTIFAMILY
HOSPITALITY &
RESORT
MIXED-USE
INDUSTRIAL
RESIDENTIAL
PRODUCT
VISUAL
MEDIA
Now: DIA’s iconic tented Jeppesen Terminal
