The city of Denver has two types of historical landmarks: individual landmarks and historic districts. Because of an error in the preservation ordinance, these two are differently protected. Whereas a structure in a historic district cannot be demolished without the review of the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission, individual landmarks can be destroyed just by waiting 12 months after the application for a demolition permit has been made.

This means that WWP structures such as the Mayan Theatre could be demolished at the whims of new owners without any public review.

The Blueprint Denver Committee has new language to remediate the problem, as will be discussed on August 23rd (City & County Building, Room 451, 1:30 pm). See the attached notification details for more information.