📊 The annual homelessness count is in!

🚍 CDOT Wants to Widen Federal Blvd

Deep in the planning process to bring Bus Rapid Transit to Federal Boulevard, the state’s transportation agency is worried dedicating a whole lane just for buses might send too many cars onto side streets. But a new proposal to widen more than two miles of the notoriously dangerous corridor has safety advocates sounding the alarm. [Denverite]

⏳ Results In for Denver’s Annual Homelessness Count

Though Mayor Mike Johnston has successfully upheld his promise to get more Denverites off the streets — reducing unsheltered homelessness by 11% — the overall number of people experiencing homelessness increased from 2023 to 2024, according to this year’s annual point-in-time count. Although that number is up 12% from last year, it’s a significant slowdown compared to previous years. [Axios Denver]

• More context: What exactly is a point-in-time count and how does it work? I got you. [Hey Denver]

😢 Goodbye Benny Blanco’s

Sad news for Denver’s pizza lovers — after 24 years slinging New York-style slices, Benny Blanco’s is closing its Cap Hill location for good at the end of the month, citing safety concerns and the “decline of the neighborhood.” While there’s still the brand new outpost in Arvada, Denverites will have to look somewhere else when those late-night pizza hankerings hit. [Westword]

• For your late-night snacking needs: Here’s where you can still find a good midnight bite in the city. [City Cast Denver 🎧]

🐈 Bird Flu Outbreak Spreads to House Cats

As Colorado continues to be a national hotbed for the ongoing bird flu outbreak in humans and animals, state veterinarians have now confirmed the virus in at least six domestic cats, including two categorized as “indoor only.” [CPR]

• What you need to know: While state health experts maintain that the risk to the general public is still low, here are tips for protecting yourself. [Hey Denver]