Santa Fe Arts District

A pilot streetscape program in Denver’s oldest arts district, new concepts were tested for Santa Fe Drive between West 6th Avenue and West 14th Avenue. A design team was charged with implementing the vision from this pilot program.

Extensive public engagement and on-site events shaped the design vision and priorities. The roadway will be reconfigured from three to two travel lanes to calm traffic and reduce vehicle speeds, providing more space and comfort to pedestrians on the existing sidewalks. New public spaces will be created by reclaiming and redesigning segments of the roadway as places for pedestrian use. Narrow amenity zones and bulbouts mid-block and at intersections present a unique opportunity to convert under-utilized areas into pedestrian-focused healthy and inviting green social spaces and urban plazas.

Streetscape and community identity elements are designed to reflect the bold, playful, artful nature of the district and a desire to honor Mexican-American, Chicano, Hispanic and Latino identity and history. The pedestrian environment was enhanced with the addition of two parklets, bike racks, realigned bus stops, seating, landscaped planters, lighting, wayfinding, and most importantly, public art and sculpture. Comfort will be enhanced through increased tree canopy and artful shade structures. Safety is emphasized through the use of bulb outs and paint for intersections and crosswalks. Major and minor gateway elements will mark entry into the district for visitors.