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Major Mike Johnston Highlights 45% Drop in Denver’s Homeless Population

PLEDGES FASTER PERMITTING AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING EXPANSION

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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Mike Johnston delivered his second State of the City address with a message filled with history, hope, and determination. Speaking from the Seawell Ballroom, the Denver mayor declared that the city is on its way to becoming “the capital of the new West,” guided by a vision of inclusion, innovation, and solidarity.

Johnston outlined achievements in two key areas: housing and public safety. He highlighted a 45% decrease in the city’s homeless population — which he described as the largest reduction in homelessness recorded by any U.S. city in recent years. He also noted that Denver is now the largest city in the nation to eliminate homelessness among veterans.

On public safety, the mayor announced that homicides are down 46% in 2025, while car thefts and catalytic converter thefts have dropped by over 50% and 90%, respectively. Meanwhile, citizen satisfaction with the police force has increased.

Accelerating Construction Permits

Johnston defended Denver’s inclusive character and criticized federal government threats, including cuts to healthcare, food assistance, and emergency programs. “We are facing not just a political crisis, but a national identity crisis,” he said. In response, he declared that Denver will commit to “learned hope” and a culture of collaboration.

Looking ahead, the mayor presented a comprehensive plan to tackle the affordable housing shortage, accelerate construction permitting, and revitalize downtown through a historic $570 million investment. He also announced plans to convert vacant office buildings into middle-class housing.

Johnston revealed a new municipal bond package aimed at renewing critical infrastructure such as parks, bridges, libraries, and recreation centers.

He also addressed climate change, pledging to electrify buildings, modernize downtown’s energy grid, and advance toward a net-zero emissions city. In education, Johnston said the city has doubled youth summer jobs and plans to expand childcare options and after-school programs.

Closing Message

“Denver doesn’t believe in the impossible. Here, we believe in working to build something greater than ourselves — something that includes all of us and outlasts each of us,” he said in closing.