Denver City Council approves 55-acre development around Ball Arena

DENVER — On Monday night, Denver City Council members approved a series of ordinances to create a new residential and commercial district around Ball Arena. 

The redevelopment plan will take place on a 55-acre property that is mostly made up of parking lots. The plans will include new entertainment, dining and wellness options. It will also create a pedestrian-friendly corridor to connect the city’s three major sporting venues: Empower Field, Ball Arena and Coors Field. 

Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) has also made a commitment to keep the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche in Denver until at least 2050. 

“Thanks to Mayor Johnston, the City Council and the people of Denver for trusting us with such an important project.  On behalf of me, Josh, and my family, and all of us at Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, we look forward to working with the community to help shape the future of this magnificent city for years to come,” E. Stanley Kroenke, owner and chairman of KSE, said in a statement.

The project includes roughly 6,000 residential units, a large central park, a hotel, smaller concert venue, restaurants, bars and much more. 

At the center of the plan is Signature Park, which would be available for large outdoor events like concerts and festivals. The north end will include a lawn which can be used for pre- and post-game activities, tournaments and seasonal activities like an outdoor ice rink. 

The south end can accommodate needs of the neighborhood with playgrounds, water play and recreational uses such as basketball and climbing. 

The project will be developed in multiple phases, with the first phase of construction expected to start as early as 2026 with subsequent phases to be constructed over a 20 to 25 year period. It’s possible it won’t be finished until 2050.

“The redevelopment will be a catalyst for Denver’s vibrancy by increasing the access and connection of the Ball Arena area development to the rest of downtown, adding an early learning center, thousands of units of housing including over 1,000 that are affordable and ensures that our Nuggets and Avalanche will continue thrilling Denver fans in a world-class sports district in the heart of our city until at least 2050,” said Mike Johnston, Denver’s Mayor. 

Monday’s vote was the culmination of a years-long process that included community input. A Community Benefits Agreement, negotiated between KSE and stakeholders from nearby communities, assures the concerns of local citizens are being addressed.

As a part of the Community Benefits Agreement, at least 18% of new housing units will be affordable housing, including a significant portion that must have two or more bedrooms to accommodate families. 

“This investment goes beyond sports, it’s about creating a hub for families and community and providing opportunities for small businesses. Thanks to the Ball Arena Community Benefit Advisory Committee who worked diligently to create more accessible and affordable spaces for all residents,” Councilwoman Jamie Torres said.