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- calendar_today November 1, 2026
Colfax Businesses See Renewed Activity After Construction
Halloween weekend has brought more than just costumes and festivities to East Colfax Avenue in Denver. Local businesses, having endured nearly two years of disruption due to the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit project, are witnessing a welcome surge in foot traffic and customer visits. Recent construction clearing on several blocks has restored accessibility and is giving business owners new reasons for optimism.
The Impact of Construction on Local Stores
For businesses like CJ’s Leather, the extended construction period resulted in significant financial losses. Owner Tim Nelson explained that the toughest stretch came in May, when sales fell 40% compared to the previous year. The challenges continued into June, with a drop of approximately 20% from June 2025. Nelson attributed the downturn to barriers, reduced parking, and a sharp reduction in pedestrians along the corridor.
Signs of Business Recovery Post-Construction
Relief came over a month ago when construction activity cleared from Nelson’s block. Since then, Nelson has observed a notable uptick in both foot traffic and sales revenue. He highlighted that this recovery is benefiting not just the business owner, but also employees. CJ’s Leather operates a profit-sharing system that rewards staff with sales bonuses when monthly revenue surpasses that of the same month in the previous year, making the return of customers particularly significant for the team.
Halloween Weekend Brings Customers Back
Halloween weekend provided a further boost, with customers visiting CJ’s Leather in search of last-minute costume accessories. Similarly, at Squire Lounge down the street, bartender Bobby Rogers described the difficulties customers faced reaching the bar during construction. Barriers and limited access made visiting Squire Lounge a challenge. However, Rogers reported that patrons have returned, with people waiting outside ahead of a Halloween potluck event on Saturday afternoon. Rogers expressed hope for a lively celebration, signaling renewed engagement from the community.
The Role of Community Support and Events
Regular Colfax Avenue visitor Jade Goss emphasized the importance of supporting neighborhood establishments. Goss stated that consistent patronage is vital for keeping the corridor vibrant and enhancing the area’s appeal. The sense of community fueled by events—like Halloween festivities—could play a crucial role in the ongoing recovery of local businesses.
Looking Beyond Halloween: The Path Forward
Operation of the first phase of bus-only lanes between Broadway and Colorado Boulevard has launched, but the complete East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit system will not be finished until further construction toward Interstate 225 is completed. In the meantime, business owners like Tim Nelson hope that continued community events and improved access will sustain the momentum Halloween has brought. For those still affected by the lingering effects of construction, the increase in foot traffic is seen as a hopeful sign of a broader, more lasting recovery.
Source: kdvr.com.
