When I moved to Glenwood Springs over 30 years ago, one thing that drew me here over anywhere else was the town’s unique character. Here in Glenwood Springs, we have vitality, animation, and life. In speaking with friends, neighbors, and fellow residents, I have come to believe that Glenwood’s character is something we all value and want to preserve. I also believe that the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is essential in maintaining what we all treasure about this community. 

What is the DDA?

The DDA was established in 2000 through a community vote. The driving factor for establishing a DDA in Glenwood Springs was to inspire and support private-sector investment in the downtown area through public space improvements. The DDA is a separate, legal entity from the city that finances economic development and redevelopment projects by utilizing tax dollars generated by downtown for downtown. It is managed by a board and has its budget reviewed by the city’s Financial Advisory Board, City Council, and audited by a third-party annually.

How is the DDA funded?

The DDA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). This mechanism is used to catalyze redevelopment projects within an established area by contributing the difference (or ‘increment’) between the base year (2001) sales and property tax revenue and the increased tax revenue generated, year over year. TIF does not mean higher taxes within the district. Glenwood’s DDA collects 50% of the tax increment generated from redevelopment activity and reinvests it within the district. The DDA is defined by specific boundaries, and the funding generated within the DDA must be used within those boundaries.

This dedicated funding means the City can stretch public dollars further, both on infrastructure improvements downtown and allowing flexibility for other public funds to be spent in areas outside of the downtown core. A high percentage of this funding is collected by visitors, which means that tourists and locals alike can experience the benefits of our lovely downtown. I also want to point out that this money may be generated in part by visitors, but it is spent in our community. 

While it is true that the DDA funds much of the projects in downtown, the City also pursues grant funding whenever possible. Nearly all projects spearheaded by the DDA are accomplished through funding partnerships with various granting entities such as the Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District (FMLD), the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), and the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA). 

The 6^th Street Project is one example of what can be done with the assistance of matching grants. The city is funding underground utility improvements, the DDA is funding improvements to above ground aesthetics and additional safety improvements are funded by grants from CDOT and RFTA. The dollars altogether mean a more holistic approach to project construction and scope.

How are DDA dollars spent?

The current fund was extended for another 20 years, expiring in 2047, meaning we can accomplish strategic, forward-thinking projects such as improvements to 6^th Street, North Landing, and downtown alleyways. The DDA also supports programming downtown such as the Market on 7^th, live music and business activations.

The DDA serves as a steward for a vibrant downtown. In fact, the DDA championed public-private partnerships that kept our library downtown. Other notable projects funded through the DDA include the design and construction of the parking garage on Cooper Avenue, the design and beautification of 7^th Street and Bethel Plaza. 

The DDA can also provide meaningful financial assistance through various grant programs to property and business owners in the downtown area. Perhaps most notable is the DDA’s Facade Improvement Grant Program, which allows local businesses in the DDA district to receive a 100% funding match up to $25,000 to make improvements to their storefronts.  Other grants include entertainment grants, the design assistance program, and the alley lighting program. In 2024 alone, the DDA approved over $110,000 in grants to local businesses.

In my time in Glenwood Springs, I’ve seen how much our downtown has improved and become a place where people want to be. Nearly year-round, we have music, incredible restaurants, and lovely shopping areas. I enjoy spending time here with my family, and I hope it is also a place that you go to have fun and relax. Our DDA plays a large role in maintaining and improving this space, and I am grateful for a district that does so much for our community. If you have more questions about the DDA or ideas for future projects, I would love to hear from you. Please reach out at marco.dehm@cogs.us or check out more of the DDA’s work at GlenwoodSpringsDDA.com.

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Marco Dehm is Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Glenwood Springs and also serves as the City Council liaison to the DDA Board. He has served on Glenwood Springs City Council since 2022, representing Ward 1.