Colorado Governor Jared Polis has taken a firm stand against building a pedestrian bridge over Lincoln Street—despite being the one who originally proposed the idea.
Polis first floated the concept last year, suggesting the bridge would improve pedestrian safety and serve as a commemorative structure for Colorado’s 150th anniversary, which coincides with America’s 250th birthday in 2026.
However, the plan drew strong backlash. Critics, including Historic Denver, argued that the bridge would damage the historic integrity of the Capitol area without offering meaningful benefits.
“Historic Denver supports the State’s desire to use art to celebrate the anniversary, but this bridge does extensive damage while serving no real purpose,” said John Deffenbaugh, President and CEO of Historic Denver Museum. He urged the Landmark Preservation Commission and the public to oppose the plan, suggesting safer street-level improvements instead.
In response to the growing criticism, Polis conducted an online poll, which garnered 87,000 responses. He told Colorado Matters host Ryan Warner that 93% of respondents opposed the bridge.
“To me, that is a very clear message,” Polis said. “I’ll do everything I can to make sure this doesn’t proceed. I said I’ll chain myself to the Capitol plaza if needed to prevent construction.”
Warner pointed out the irony: “Governor, the only person you would chain yourself to oppose is your previous self.”
Polis replied, “I will stop those bulldozers if I have to do it in person.”
When Warner reminded him they were “his bulldozers,” Polis pushed back. “I didn’t have any bulldozers,” he said, noting the idea predates him. “This is something that’s been talked about since Mayor Federico Peña. But no, I’m excited to make sure I can deliver on ensuring there is no walkway.”
He concluded, “It’s certainly easier for us to not build a bridge, than build a bridge, in many ways.”
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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