Photos PLZ: Denver's Worst (Commerce City: houses, neighborhoods, school)

[zenkonami]

I keep hearing about outsiders' misconceptions about Denver (and Colorado in general.) There have been some great photos of the city and state's beauty (though I think some people find some things more attractive than others!) I thought it might be interesting to show some of the "ugly" which I'm sure will be subjective. It would be interesting to clarify some of those misconceptions and read some differing opinions about industry, smog, brown grass, blighted neighborhoods and the like...and how they relate to the history and culture of Denver and Colorado as a whole. Maybe even some then and now photos would be great.

[vegaspilgrim]

Here's a few recycled from my recent Misc. Denver metro photo tour. This is not really "bad," it's just an industrial area (Commerce City).





This photo doesn't capture it all that well, but Denver does have a major smog problem that shouldn't be downplayed. It seems like the smog backs up in certain parts of town (especially the central Platte Valley and the northwest side) more than others.

[Osito]

I'm not sure what you really classify as "ugly pictures" so I'll just give you a few ideas on suffering buildings/neighborhoods.

You could probably and unfortunately get some pictures up by the 88th and Washington intersection, particularly around the Russell Blvd area. There's a handful of abandoned stores over in that area to the east of Washington that are sitting boarded up. A few vacant houses here and there around the neighborhood behind it too. That neighborhood is doing so bad right now, it's a shame. I spent my early childhood over there and when I went back there a couple of months ago and was walking around it just broke my heart. Homes of my childhood friends were sitting vacant, yards full of weeds. But yeah, if you want some "ugly" pictures that would be an area to check out. :-(

Also try the area at Broadway and Hampden. There were some boarded-up buildings over there. Also try Larimer Street downtown, past 23rd. I hope this helps.

[2bindenver]

Vegas's bottom photo is at Uni & C-470 northwest view. The spier is from the Mormon church. The strip mall has my fav sprint/nextel store. Chili's, Target, and Sunflower Market among others.

[5starson23]

Posting pictures of the worst parts of a city is great idea...
more likely an art school project than something people would typically post on this forum, but hey, I think it is a great conversation starter.

When I was living in Chicago I used to love taking pictures of old buildings and warehouses and urban decay. When I moved to Portland I found that I nolonger had subject material of that sort.

Now that I'm travelling the country, I think I might make of point of documenting urban decay in our nation's cities for the purposes of art and of course sharing. (just in case anyone wants to get a glimpse of the places they dare not go).

I'll be in Denver in a couple weeks. If I ever learn how to put pictures on this forum, I'll be sure to share.