The East Colfax Corridor is one of the most unique and diverse areas in the United States. A combination of residential and commercial, it is a main thoroughfare (the longest in the country) traversing multiple municipalities, counties, neighborhoods, council and business districts, and cultures from around the world. The focus of much attention at this time—with the planned Bus Rapid Transit project and the recent Opportunity Zone designation—long-time East Colfax stakeholders want to not only prevent the displacement of existing residents and businesses but ensure that as opportunities and resources flow into the corridor, the lives of existing residents are vastly improved. The stakes are high, and the clock is ticking with many initiatives, leaders, and tactics at play to address issues around land use and development, transportation, public safety, economic development, and immigration and refugee services.

This panel brings together some resident- and organizational-leaders—who are of the community and working toward equitable visions held by the community—to discuss the opportunities, pathways, challenges, and power dynamics of these efforts.