Denver leaders advance permanent aid for businesses hurt by construction

A Denver City Council committee advanced ordinances Tuesday to make the city’s aid program for small businesses affected by construction permanent and establish a dedicated fund. The Business Impact Opportunity Program provides grants and technical assistance. Proposed rules would require qualifying city-funded projects to set aside 1% to 5% of their budgets, depending on cost and duration. The measures now go to the full council, with sponsors aiming for a Jan. 1, 2027, start.