For over 160 years, Central City has stood as a symbol of Colorado’s frontier spirit and mining history. With its preserved 19th-century buildings, rich cultural landmarks, and mountain-town charm, this community offers something rare and irreplaceable. But all of that is now at risk.

A North Carolina-based developer, G3 Gaming, is proposing to build a 345-foot, 27-story casino hotel tower in Gregory Gulch—just steps from the historic homes that line Central City’s hillside. If approved, this massive structure would violate the city’s existing 53-foot height limit and permanently alter the skyline of one of Colorado’s most treasured historic districts.

For longtime residents like 74-year-old Bob Powe, the tower would mean more than just an eyesore—it would take away his home’s direct sunlight for months at a time. His 1865 house, like many others in the area, depends on natural sunlight for warmth. The development also threatens to erase the privacy, quiet, and views that define life in this mountain town.

The proposed casino tower would turn Central City into something it was never meant to be: a copy of Black Hawk’s high-rise, high-traffic gambling strip.

The City Council must listen to residents, not out-of-state developers. We urge Central City leaders to:

• Reject the proposed height variance for the Gregory Gulch Casino Tower
• Uphold the city’s historic character and zoning protections
• Protect the homes, light, and privacy of longtime residents

We believe in economic growth—but not at the expense of the people and heritage that make this town worth visiting in the first place. Once we lose that, we can’t get it back.

Add your name to stop the 27-story casino tower and protect the historic soul of Central City.

Photo:  RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post