Lakewood launches new grant program to help secure West Colfax businesses
Courtesy photo, lakewoodtogether.org
The City of Lakewood started a pilot program to help businesses combat increasing weariness of property crime.
The city’s new Colfax Security Enhancement Pilot will provide up to $5,000 to businesses that face West Colfax Avenue for security improvements like cameras, locks, fences and mirrors, according to a press release from the city.
The pilot program — with a budget of $100,000 — follows businesses’ concerns that property-based crime was increasing in the area, according to Karolina Brzozka, economic development specialist for the city.
While the city’s economical development office does not keep track of crime statistics, Brzozka said that interactions with businesses in the region has indicated a rise in issues.
The Denver Gazette reached out to the Lakewood Police Department regarding an increase of crime in the area, but did not hear back by the time this report was published.
“Lakewood, like many other cities in the metro area, has seen an increase in those who are unhoused,” Brzozka said. “That doesn’t in itself necessarily cause an increase in crime, but businesses have become concerned, and the Economic Development team is offering this pilot as one way to help businesses address safety concerns and increase security measures that would protect their properties and employees.”
Regardless if there is an actual increase in crime, Brzozka said it’s important to improve safety in the area because “it is a heavily used corridor with many businesses, visitors and residents.”
Applications are open until July 31 and must include businesses on West Colfax Avenue between Sheridan Boulevard and Youngfield Street.
As a pilot program, the grants may extend to different parts of a the city after the trial period.
More information can be found at Lakewood.org.




