State Sen. Mike Johnston will announce a run for governor on Tuesday, according to an advisory Monday from the Johnston campaign.

The Democrat said he will make the announcement “surrounded by supporters, friends and community leaders.”

An event is planned at the Holly Street Community Center in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood.

Johnston promises to spend two days traveling the state following the kick-off, including stops in Pueblo, Costilla County, Durango, Grand Junction and Vail.

Johnston earned a reputation as a community leader, especially in the area of education, founding the successful Mapleton Expeditionary School, where he served at-risk and high-needs kids. He has also led education-reform efforts in the legislature.

Johnston’s campaign said they chose the Holly Street Community Center because it is across the street from Johnston’s community office. Johnston has long made it a source of pride that he operates his office as a community outreach center.

Northeast Denver has experienced years of gang violence, which Johnston has often highlighted in his work in the legislature

His gubernatorial announcement is planned for 9 a.m.

Colorado’s race for governor in 2018 is expected to be crowded on both political sides, as there is an open seat that John Hickenlooper will leave behind.

Democrats are eagerly waiting to learn if party stars like former Interior Secretary and U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar and U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter might join the race.

Democrats could also see much of the divisive 2016 election creep into the primary, with candidates like state Rep. Joe Salazar of Thornton and state Sen. Michael Merrifield of Colorado Springs each considering a run with a Bernie Sanders-oriented base behind them.

Already announced for Democrats is Denver manufacturing entrepreneur and civic leader Noel Ginsburg.

Top names floated in Republican circles include Treasurer Walker Stapleton, Arapahoe County District Attorney George Brauchler, Attorney General Cynthia Coffman and state Sen. Ray Scott of Grand Junction.

Seven candidates have filed paperwork to run for governor in 2018.

Three of the candidates are Democrats, one is a Republican, another is unaffiliated, and the remaining two candidates represent the Green and Unity parties.

Check back with ColoradoPolitics.com for updates from the campaign kickoff.