Vibrant Denver bond: What it is and how we got here

This comprehensive voter guide by Denverite explains the Vibrant Denver bond package, covering Mayor Mike Johnston's ambitious $1 billion infrastructure proposal appearing on Denver's November ballot.

The guide details how Denver voters will decide on five separate ballot measures totaling nearly $1 billion in municipal bonds for transportation, parks, health services, city infrastructure, and housing projects. The package emerged from an extensive public process that whittled down 220 potential projects worth $6 billion to 58 priority initiatives. While the city faces budget constraints and recently laid off employees, proponents argue these shovel-ready projects will create 10,000 jobs and drive economic growth without raising property taxes, using existing debt capacity as older bonds are paid off.

• Five ballot measures allow voters to approve or reject individual project categories, from $441M for transportation to $70M for affordable housing initiatives
• Major projects include $89M for 8th Avenue viaduct reconstruction, $75M police/fire training center, and $70M for new Park Hill Park development
• Strong political support includes endorsements from former mayors, senators, and business leaders, with over $1M raised by supporters
• Limited organized opposition exists, mainly from Citizens for NO New Debt group citing concerns about bank profits and transparency issues