Of the more than 60,000 unemployment claims filed in Colorado this week, the two sectors that have been hit the hardest are hotels and food service.
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That leaves one popular Denver attraction uniquely exposed on various fronts: Dairy Block.
McWhinney’s mixed-use development is swelling with office space, the 172-room Maven Hotel, the cavernous food hall, Milk Market, and several retail spots.
Dairy Block General Manager Don Cloutier said many of the site's businesses had already adjusted their operations before the state-issued stay-at-home order went into effect.
The Maven Hotel temporarily closed on March 19, but is slated to reopen on May 12. The Dairy Block restaurants and bars transitioned to takeout and delivery service.
“Denver Milk Market has shifted to a new business model and is now selling essential market items, like toiletries and fresh produce,” Cloutier said.
Aside from providing retail, office and hospitality services, Dairy Block also has an extensive schedule of community events that have been postponed or canceled. Cloutier said a street art festival, custom motorcycle celebration and a bridal showcase were all on the docket for this year.
“Obviously, several of our spring events have had to be postponed, but we are working with our partners to reschedule and pick up where we left off,” he said.
CORRECTION, APRIL 14, 12:29 P.M. MT: A previous version of the story said Dan Cloutier. It has been corrected to say Don Cloutier.
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