PROJECT ARCHIVE
Central City Planning, Preservation & Economic Development
Central City, Gilpin County, CO| 2013-14
UC Studios approached Central City as an integrated municipal development challenge, aligning land-use regulation, historic preservation, development review, and economic strategy within a single framework. Working through zoning approvals, permitting, plan review, and historic-preservation coordination with SHPO, the team helped connect day-to-day municipal decision-making with a broader strategy for reinvestment and long-term community vitality.
The work assessed more than 200 historic properties and identified opportunities to protect the district’s architectural character while enabling adaptive reuse, redevelopment of gaming properties, complementary retail and commercial uses, and stronger pedestrian connections. By treating historic buildings and commercial properties as economic assets—not simply preservation obligations—the strategy positioned Central City for more diverse investment, a stronger year-round economy, and a more walkable destination.