Denver’s post-COVID economic recovery to focus on equity, infrastructure

By Hannah Metzger and Michael Karlik

Mayor Michael Hancock’s administration presented the first look at Denver’s post-pandemic economic recovery vision Wednesday, providing a major emphasis on ensuring equity and investing in infrastructure.

In the coming months, Denver leaders expect to receive a windfall from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, a state stimulus plan, city investments and a $400 million general obligation bond program that Denver voters may see on the ballot in November.

“We need to dig ourselves out of this hole and pull every lever we can to get back to pre-pandemic level,” said Eric Hiraga, executive director of Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, at a press conference. “The goal is to recover as one of the strongest economies in the nation.”

The RISE Denver plan, which stands for Rebuilding for an Inclusive and Sustainable Economy, has five core priorities: job creation, support for individuals and businesses, neighborhood-based improvements, government-driven investments and enhancing support for companies operating in Denver.

“We need to leverage the federal government’s investment,” Hancock said. “We need to seize this opportunity to kickstart our recovery and sustain it.”

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment in Denver hovered at just under 3%. In 2020, Denver’s unemployment peaked at a whopping 13.4%, but it now rests below 7%.