A gas station on Brighton Boulevard, photographed in 2015. (BusinessDen file)
A proposal to restrict the construction of new gas stations in Denver would prohibit the construction of new stations in almost all locations along Colfax Avenue and Federal Boulevard, among others, according to a presentation by city council members last week.
Council members Amanda Sawyer, Diana Romero Campbell and Paul Kashmann informed the city’s Planning Committee of their proposal last week. They initially announced it with fewer details, End of July.
Members plan to ask their council colleagues to approve a zoning ordinance amendment that would prohibit new gas stations within a quarter-mile of an existing gas station and within a quarter-mile of railroad platforms. The amendment would also prohibit new gas stations within 300 feet of less densely populated residential areas, such as those with predominantly single-family homes.
The presentation included two maps. The first showed in blue where zoning currently allows gas stations to be built. The outlines of some of the city’s major corridors – such as Colfax, Federal and Broadway – are clearly visible.
Where gas stations can currently be built. (City of Denver)
The second map, also in blue, showed where gas stations could be built if the new restrictions were implemented.
Where gas stations could be built if the zoning change is approved. (City of Denver)
Colfax, Federal and Broadway are disappearing. There would also be little opportunity to build a new station along Colorado Boulevard, although there are already relatively few suitable sites on this street – and part of it borders Glendale.
Existing petrol stations are shown as red dots on both maps.
The proposal would also allow the city to lift the above restrictions on gas stations attached to a full-service grocery store.
Planned new gas stations for which the city received development plans by May 13 are not subject to the restrictions.
Kashmann said the change would prioritize housing development and the creation of “space.” He also cited “environmental and noise protection reasons” for establishing a buffer zone between gas stations and residential areas.
“I’ve never had a problem with someone not being able to fill their tank comfortably, so I think as an inland city we need to be as prudent as possible in meeting our needs,” Kashmann said.
When asked why the proposal calls for a quarter-mile buffer – and not something longer – Sawyer said there is “precedent in our zoning code for quarter-mile buffers.”
A final vote by the full Council could take place on December 9.
