Project Overview

The City of Littleton has embarked on a comprehensive economic development strategic planning (CEDS) project to position the City on a continued path of an economically diverse, resilient, and vibrant economy that allows people of all backgrounds to live, work, play, and visit. The planning process is intended to provide a basis for developing economic development priorities and initiatives specific to Littleton with consideration to how Littleton works with neighboring cities and the greater Denver metro area. Future iQ, in partnership with Jon Stover & Associates (JS&A), have been contracted to develop a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan for Littleton that positions the City as one of character and opportunity with a financially sustainable model focusing on these key concepts:
Future Facing | Balancing Change | Inclusivity | Historic Preservation | People | Places

Incorporated in 1890, Littleton is consistently voted one of America’s Best Small Cities. Littleton’s distinctive character is defined by its neighborhoods, expansive open space, trail network, educated workforce, small business community, its Mid-Mod Mile, and an historic downtown with a city population of nearly 50,000 residents. With big city proximity and an authentic small-town feel, Littleton is 13.75 square miles of charm and opportunity located just 23 miles from Denver’s urban amenities, with easy access via E-470 and Interstate 25 to Denver International Airport and Centennial Airport (the nation’s second busiest general aviation airport).

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan will become the guiding document for the City’s economic development priorities and programs over the next 10 years. The Plan is expected to answer these key questions:

• What is economic development in Littleton, CO? [How do we compare to cities in the metro area and to cities of like size and character?; What is our focus and are we doing the right things to achieve our goals?]
• How do we balance growth and develop a vibrant economy, particularly in our historic downtown district and along key corridors and what tools are needed to do so?
• Where does Littleton fit within the region and where can we add something totally unique?
• How will the CEDS ensure Littleton is inclusive and equitable?
• What are short-term action items (18 months), mid-term recommendations (up to 5 years) and long-term aspirational initiatives?
• What are Littleton’s benchmarks to track and measure success (i.e., new investment, revenue generation, quality jobs)?