26-1256: Approves a Funding and Assignment Agreement between the City and Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. (Zoo) for $3,000,000.00 with an end date of 12-31-2031 to provide Vibrant Denver Bond proceeds for capital maintenance and/or improvements, such as the Guest Experience Hub, in Council District 9 (FINAN-202684440).

Description

Approves a Funding and Assignment Agreement between the City and Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. (Zoo) for $3,000,000.00 with an end date of 12-31-2031 to provide Vibrant Denver Bond proceeds for capital maintenance and/or improvements, such as the Guest Experience Hub, in Council District 9 (FINAN-202684440).

Summary

Denver’s Parks, Arts & Culture Committee is considering four Vibrant Denver bond measures. Bill 26-1258 would authorize a $4.45 million architectural and engineering contract with Short Elliott Hendrickson through December 2030 for Red Rocks Amphitheatre’s backstage expansion, renovation, and accessibility improvements. The project would add dressing rooms, elevators, offices, kitchens, technology, and covered parking while addressing outdated facilities and barriers for performers and staff. Bills 26-1255 through 26-1257 would transfer $3 million each to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Denver Zoo, and Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Funds would support approved capital projects, including theater lobby upgrades, zoo guest facilities, museum fire-safety systems, and HVAC replacement. The agreements affect these partner organizations and Denver residents and visitors by directing voter-approved bond proceeds to cultural, safety, maintenance, and accessibility improvements.