Centennial's proposed 2027-2028 budget calls for $1.75 million in streetlights along the Smoky Hill corridor, where fatal crashes have prompted safety concerns.

The city manager presented the biennial budget to city council on Sept. 15, according to Centennial's budget page.

Budget workshops followed on Oct. 12 and Oct. 13, as first reported by the Littleton Independent. A public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 17 before the council formally adopts the budget.

The city describes itself as being at a "financial crossroads," according to its budget page. Annual expenditures are expected to exceed revenue between now and 2035. By 2028, Centennial may lack the funding to maintain roads, bridges, traffic signals and other infrastructure at current levels, the city said.

The budget outlines investments in infrastructure, public safety and community services.

Smoky Hill and road projects

The Smoky Hill corridor has seen several fatal crashes over the past two years, according to the budget proposal. Neighborhoods along the road were built before the city incorporated, leaving it without streetlights suited for heavy traffic. The city manager proposed $1.75 million for arterial-standard streetlights and $125,000 for a corridor study.

The budget also includes $700,000 for bridge maintenance at Colorado Boulevard over Little Dry Creek and $300,000 to replace failing traffic signal network switches.

Midtown and public safety

The council unanimously backed a $500,000 package over two years to advance the Midtown Centennial project. Assistant City Manager Eric Eddy said the money would move Midtown from its design phase into signage, marketing and traffic planning, the Littleton Independent reported.

Public safety spending would rise to $44.7 million in 2027, up from $43.6 million in 2026. The Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) is evaluating replacement of body-worn cameras and radios, with staff recommending a policy discussion before the funds are spent.

Residents can view the full proposed budget online. The Nov. 17 hearing is the next chance to weigh in before the council votes on adoption.