Denver, CO – As spring blossoms, Denver’s downtown landscape is set to showcase fewer floral displays due to budgetary constraints prompted by the city’s efforts to address its migrant crisis. The decision to scale back on various programs, including flower plantings, was made earlier this year, and the consequences are becoming increasingly evident.
Typically, iconic locations such as Civic Center Park, adjacent to the Colorado Capitol, boast vibrant flowerbeds throughout the summer months. However, reports indicate that such displays will be limited to a few select areas this year.
The city initially earmarked $180 million in its 2024 budget to accommodate migrants arriving from the southern border. Following the consolidation of four shelters, this figure was reduced to $120 million. Yet, the Common Sense Institute, an independent think-tank, now projects the city’s expenses to reach $58 million, surpassing earlier estimates of $55 million.
In February, Denver unveiled plans to implement cost-cutting measures across departments, affecting services provided by entities like the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Parks and Recreation Department. Among the responsibilities of the Parks Department is the upkeep of city landscaping, which encompasses the annual flower plantings.
The financial savings resulting from the decision to forgo flower planting remain uncertain. Notably, major plantings occur in Civic Center Park, Washington Park, and City Park.
According to information provided on the city of Denver’s website, annual flower displays are typically installed “between mid-May and early June each year and remain in the parks until early-mid October,” followed by winterization procedures.
Volunteers are being enlisted to aid in various park maintenance tasks, including tree mulching, debris removal, and garden bed weeding. Those interested in volunteering can find opportunities listed on the city’s website. Additionally, the Denver Park Trust has expressed its commitment to supporting the city by independently preserving its parks.
“In times of need, collective action can provide support to the vulnerable while ensuring the vibrancy and accessibility of our public parks,” stated the Trust in a February release.
In the city’s published 2024 budget plan, the Parks and Recreation and Cultural Facilities, encompassing the Denver Public Library system, accounted for $160 million of Denver’s total budget allocation.
