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August 31, 2026

More than 60% of Denverites Want Denser Housing. Why Is It Still a Big Fight?

City Cast Denver

More than 60% of Denverites Want Denser Housing. Why Is It Still a Big Fight?

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How can Denver solve the housing affordability problem? A new poll from the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project and Housing Forward Colorado says more than 60% of Denverites think higher density in their neighborhoods (like more duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes) could be the answer. The poll shows support for a proposal soon to go before City Council – “Unlocking Housing Choices,” which aims to address this “missing middle” housing issue through zoning reform. SWEEP’s Smart Growth Senior Program Manager Max Nardo joins host Bree Davies to look at the poll results and discuss the density debate to come. 

Producer Paul Karolyi reported on the budget-related downscaling of the Unlocking Housing Choices project in an episode back in February. Bree mentioned interviews we did with both sides of the Lakewood density debate that went to voters earlier in March.

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What do you think about adding “missing middle” housing to your block? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418

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