Historic Auditorium Ballot Proposal Planned

However, under a newly revised financing plan, the city will be able to pay off the bonds without a property tax increase. The bond payments would be covered by the current mill levy.

A task force of citizens and activists committed to saving the auditorium from shutting down recommended that the $75-million basic renovation be paid by using $50 million in funds collected or repaid from seat tax revenues, and $25 million in general obligation bonds to be approved by Denver voters.

That way, two-thirds of the cost of the basic renovation can be paid directly by users of the city's theatres through seat tax revenue. The $25-million bond issue would be covered by the current mill levy and would not require a property tax increase.

The Auditorium, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Denver Landmarks List, was opened in 1908 and is Denver's oldest public building.

However, it has not been renovated since the mid-1950's. Concerns about its aging mechanical and structural systems, which, if not addressed soon, would lead to the closure of the building, has led to the call for its renovation.

The renovation plans call for creation of a 2,400-seat proscenium theatre designed around unamplified natural acoustics and great sight lines to the stage.

The theatre is located on 14th Street in the middle of other important renovations in that part of downtown Denver, including the $268-million expansion of the Colorado Convention Center. That center will have a new RTD Light Rail Station and 1,000-space parking garage directly across the street from the auditorium.

The Auditorium currently hosts the majority of performances in Denver's theatres by the Colorado Ballet, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble and the Denver Brass. Upon its renovation, the auditorium would also become the home of Opera Colorado.