The Denver City Council has approved a major rezoning plan for the 70-acre area surrounding Ball Arena, setting the stage for a transformative urban development spearheaded by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. The proposal aims to turn the existing parking lots around Ball Arena into a dynamic, mixed-use neighborhood featuring new parks, retail spaces, and residential housing, including a substantial number of affordable units. This ambitious project is a pivotal part of Denver’s broader vision for a more inclusive, vibrant downtown.
Key Features of the Development
The development plan calls for around 6,000 housing units, including approximately 1,000 affordable units along Auraria Parkway and Speer Boulevard. Alongside residential spaces, the project includes:
•Parks and Public Spaces: The addition of green spaces and parks will provide much-needed recreational areas, offering residents and visitors a welcoming outdoor environment.
•Retail and Dining Options: Plans for retail spaces, restaurants, and cafes are intended to create a lively, community-oriented atmosphere.
•Connectivity Enhancements: Efforts to improve connectivity within the area aim to integrate the new neighborhood with the existing urban landscape, making it easier for residents and visitors to navigate.
Kroenke Sports & Entertainment envisions the project as a neighborhood hub where people can live, work, and play, addressing both Denver’s housing needs and the demand for more mixed-use developments in the city.
The Need for Affordable Housing
With Denver’s population steadily increasing, housing affordability has become a pressing issue. The development’s commitment to 1,000 affordable units demonstrates an effort to provide housing options for diverse income levels, which has been a focal point of public interest and support. The inclusion of affordable housing in such a high-profile location represents a significant step toward reducing the housing affordability gap in the downtown area.
Community and Economic Impact
During the City Council’s public comment period, many residents voiced their support, highlighting the potential economic benefits and the project’s positive impact on housing availability. Supporters believe that the development will:
•Boost Local Economy: New businesses, retail spaces, and restaurants are expected to attract both locals and tourists, increasing economic activity in the downtown area.
•Address Housing Demand: With a combination of market-rate and affordable housing, the project aims to cater to a wide range of residents, helping alleviate some of the pressures of Denver’s tight housing market.
•Enhance Urban Living: The focus on walkability, green spaces, and integrated public areas aligns with modern urban design principles, promoting a healthier and more connected lifestyle for Denver residents.
Despite the overwhelming support, some residents raised concerns about the project’s connectivity and the potential strain on existing infrastructure. Questions were also posed regarding pedestrian walkability, public transit options, and the development’s ability to integrate seamlessly with Denver’s existing neighborhoods. The city has acknowledged these concerns, stating that future planning stages will address these aspects to create a cohesive and well-connected urban experience.
Timeline and Next Steps
The project is expected to be developed in phases, with construction slated to begin before 2026. The timeline reflects the scale and complexity of the plan, as well as the city’s commitment to a thorough, thoughtful approach. Over the coming years, the development is anticipated to bring noticeable changes to Denver’s skyline, contributing to the city’s evolution as a hub for business, culture, and residential life.
The rezoning approval around Ball Arena signals a new chapter for Denver’s urban landscape, fostering a vision of a more vibrant and inclusive downtown. This transformative development by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment represents a commitment to affordable housing, economic growth, and sustainable urban planning.
For Denver residents interested in following the progress of this development, visit the city’s planning department website or attend upcoming public forums. Corken + Company Real Estate Group will also keep our clients and the community updated on this transformative project and its impact on the local market. Contact us today for insights on how this development could shape real estate opportunities in downtown Denver.
