Colorado Real Estate Journal - August 17, 2016
At its 61st annual meeting, the Downtown Denver Partnership recognized the success of its place-based economic development strategy. The annual meeting, presented by Grant Thornton, allows the partnership to showcase activities that align with the high-impact strategies outlined in the 2007 Downtown Area Plan and report on progress toward building a healthy and vital downtown Denver. More than 900 civic and business leaders were in attendance. “The Downtown Denver Partnership leads the private sector to build downtown Denver as the premier economic hub of the region,” said Tami Door, president and CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership. The partnership reported on accomplishments over the past year, which are detailed in the organization’s 2015-16 Annual Report, and announced several priorities for the upcoming year, including: • Launching an interactive Arapahoe Square Property Owner Map to allow developers, investors and city agencies to see parcel-specific information regarding ownership, improvements and zoning. • Advocating for affordable housing options while balancing business and property owner interests, including evaluating funding sources, uses and governance for the city’s proposed dedicated revenue fund for affordable housing. • Defining a clear vision for the future of the 16th Street Mall, in collaboration with the city and county of Denver and the Regional Transportation District, through The Mall Experience study. The partnership also recognized the leadership of outgoing chairman Joe Vostrejs, partner of City Street Investors. Walter Isenberg, president and CEO of Sage Hospitality, was elected as chairman of the partnership for 2016-2017. In addition, Rob Cohen, CEO of The IMA Financial Group Inc., was elected for a second term as chairman of Downtown Denver Inc.; Trinidad Rodriguez, senior vice president and managing director, public finance of D.A. Davidson, was elected chairman of Denver Civic Ventures; and Bill Mosher, senior managing director of Trammell Crow Co., was elected chairman-elect of the partnership. Several members also were recognized for their significant contributions to the partnership’s efforts in the urban core: Cole Finegan, regional managing partner, Hogan Lovells US LLP, was presented the Honorary Partner Award, which is presented to a member who exhibits strong leadership and engagement in the partnership for a period of at least 10 years. Brandy Bertram, director of development, Colorado Open Lands, received the Peter Bowes Award, which is presented to a member who exemplifies the legacy of Bowes, past chairman of the DDP. Tom Carroll, associate, Faegre Baker Daniels LLP; Kevin Kelley, office managing partner, Husch Blackwell; and Wendy Williams, director of property management, Vector Property Services LLC, received Volunteer of the Year awards, presented to members who have made significant contributions to the partnership’s programs and initiatives over the last year.