If you’ve visited Denver’s top visitor destination, 16th Street Mall, you’ve likely seen Mr. Kinney. James Kinney has spent 11 years walking up and down the Mall.
Several years ago, James lived and worked in Michigan City, Indiana along with his three sisters. While there, James worked for nine years to manage the cleanliness of a large outdoor outlet shopping mall. Even on the coldest of days, James was excited to work.
He swept, mopped, sanitized, and removed trash to preserve a clean and welcoming environment. It’s not easy work, James confessed, but he liked to take the time to do a good job, taking great pride in his job.
James went on to work in security for 10 years, though did not like that line of work as much. The job entailed a lot of desk and computer time. It was then that James realized he wanted to go back to a job where he could be physically active.
In 2010, James started working as a Clean Team Technician for CSG. There is a lot that goes into making a place great and James pridefully took on the responsibility. He works specifically on 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver.
Cleaning 16th Street Mall involves keeping walkways safe of obstacles and substances that could make it difficult for people to move from store to restaurant to office. Maintaining smart lighting, visible directional signage, clean and close seating areas, and fully operable amenities help create an accessible and inclusive downtown. With millions of visitors each year, it’s important the Mall is always ready to welcome locals and tourists to downtown Denver.
What do you like about your job as a senior member of a CSG Cleaning Crew?
Maybe stemming from his time in the National Guard, James is early to rise and his positive enthusiasm doesn’t stop until his head hits the pillow. He loves walking and finds the activities involved in being a Clean Team Technician helps relieve stress – an added perk of the job!
James believes his positive attitude also comes from cleaning. Cleaning provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction – seeing the before and after success. James enjoys working hard, even bearing the brunt of a few jokes among CSG team members for his mantra, Keep it movin’!
What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen on 16th Street Mall?
In James’ 11 years cleaning and maintaining downtown Denver, he’s seen a lot but notes his favorites are the events and entertainment.
“Things like the Downtown Denver Rink, Parade of Lights...I love to see the people dancing, the music, families havin’ fun.”
What are your favorite places on 16th Street Mall?
Sam’s No. 3 or 7-11
What do you do when you’re not working?
James is a Denver Broncos fan who likes to spend time with his friends and watching TV.
Communities tend to come together around beautiful cityscapes, festivals, events, public art and other historical and cultural spaces. This holiday season, James invites you to experience downtown Denver. We’ll see you there!
If you’re interested in working with CSG, learn more about opportunities available and how to apply.