An unidentified staff member told the council the small-business assistance effort tied to the Colfax BRT corridor will include financial analysis, business coaching and limited funding to help owners qualify for lending as ARPA support phases out. The presenter said staff have held open houses in both English and Spanish and plan targeted outreach to Tier 1 businesses (those immediately adjacent to new stops) and Tier 2 businesses likely to be affected by construction signage and disruptions.

"We will have some money available, but, again, having that financial analysis, make sure that they can carry themselves," the presenter said. Staff emphasized coordination with the BRT construction team and earlier outreach events to identify business concerns.

Council members asked how the program will sustain businesses during construction; staff said the program includes pre-construction engagement, a menu of services, and support to set up personal and business finances so owners can qualify for private lending. The transcript does not record program dollar totals, eligibility criteria or a formal vote.