Denver board recommends mixed-use zoning for Potter Highlands church

The Denver Planning Board recommended that City Council rezone the vacant church at 2601 W. 34th Ave. and 3401 N. Bryant St. from U-TU-B zoning with a conservation overlay to U-MX-2X, a district allowing buildings up to two stories and limited commercial uses. The recommendation came at the board’s Oct. 21 hearing; City Council must make the final decision, the hearing recording shows.

The applicant described a possible reuse of the 1914 church, including space for small businesses. Supporters said a new use could help preserve and reactivate the vacant building. Opponents questioned whether commercial activity fits the residential neighborhood and raised concerns about parking, traffic, noise and operating hours.

The applicant said it had reached an agreement with Highland United Neighbors on proposed use and operating limits. The applicant described limits including hours of 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. for non-food businesses and keeping eating and drinking uses on the main level, with the lower level used for preparation and storage. The available case materials do not establish whether those proposed restrictions have been formalized in a recorded covenant.

The rezoning would not approve a specific business or construction plan. Work requiring permits would still need historic-district landmark review, and staff said traffic review would take place during development review rather than the rezoning process.

The city’s case page lists committee review for Nov. 3 and a City Council public hearing as “TBD.” The board’s recommendation is advisory, and the city’s case page and process information identify City Council as the body that will make the final decision.