A neglected historical building at 2558 Champa St. will come back to life as it becomes a gelato shop, according to the Denver Post. A local couple in the real estate and development scene will open Cassady’s at the address next year.
It was once a barbershop, as well as the home of Neal Cassady, a key figure of the Beat Generation. He later reflected on his upbringing there in his autobiography “The First Third.”
The name of the shop is a nod to its famous former resident. The business is slated to open in spring 2025, featuring gelato and a selection of books related to the author’s literary legacy.
John Hayden and Keith Pryor, who have lived nearby for nearly 30 years, purchased the property in 2019 for $150,000. The duo has spent the last few years restoring the site and expects to invest around $70,000 total on the project, which includes creating an outdoor patio where a dilapidated section of the building once stood.
Hayden, a seasoned realtor, brings his expertise in the local real estate market, while Pryor, a contractor, lends his skills in property development. The pair has a history of rehabilitating historic properties in Curtis Park, and both serve on the Board of Directors for the Curtis Park Neighbors group.
