Downtown Underground

Listed: 2018

Constructed: Typically Late 19th and early 20th Century

Threat: Demolition by neglect; building code issues; flooding; abandonment

Closest Town to Resource: Various

Significance: A once common but rapidly disappearing feature of many downtowns across Colorado is the underground entrances to the lower levels of historic commercial buildings. Some of these below-sidewalkgrade entrances are accessible by outside stairwells and from doors in the lower or basement level of buildings themselves. These once ubiquitous features were often service entries at the entryways to businesses on the lower level. Most are located below the main facades and have relatively ornate metal hand railings and balusters, but some are located along the sides or back alleyways of the structures. Many have been creatively adapted for patio seating or other uses that complement the businesses next to or above them. Unfortunately, the uniqueness and significance of the underground entrances and tunnels are not well understood or appreciated today, and many have been filled in, covered up, or simply sealed off. In many places, the store owner does not own the areas directly under the sidewalk and cannot preserve them even if they want to.

Site Needs: Highlight the uniqueness of the underground entrances and tunnels and heighten awareness of their existence and potential for creative use.

Updates: A Downtown Underground workshop was held at the Lake City Arts Center that highlighted the efforts of the building owner to develop a new multi-use space known as the Art Cave on the lower level of the building.