Ball Arena Redevelopment Approved By City of Denver

KSE-Ball Arean Redevelopment Concept Plan, Learn More.

The redevelopment of the Ball Arena area, has been approved by the Denver City Council, marks a significant shift in commercial construction and urban redevelopment for Denver residents. Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) has secured the green light to transform approximately 70 acres surrounding the arena into a thriving mixed-use space, featuring apartments, retail shops, and office spaces.

The council’s decision involved rezoning the land, which included a critical exemption from the view plane restriction that protects mountain views. This exemption, essential for KSE’s vision, allows for the construction of taller buildings, thus expanding the potential for much-needed affordable housing. With the plan in place, KSE aims to construct around 6,000 residential units, 18% of which will be dedicated to affordable housing—addressing the ongoing housing crisis in Denver.

Concerns about the impact on Denver’s skyline and mountain views were voiced during public hearings. While Councilmember Amanda Sawyer, representing District 5, cast the only “no” vote, arguing about setting a precedent for future developments, other council members focused on the positive aspects of the project. For instance, Councilmember Chris Hinds emphasized the potential increase in affordable housing, stating that more height allows for more housing units, which is critical as the city faces an affordable housing crisis.

Community opinions were mixed. Some residents, such as Casey Pitinga, expressed concerns about the visual impact, saying, “The unique beauty of Denver will be compromised forever with the addition of approximately 40 high-rise buildings blocking the view of the mountains.” Others, however, saw the redevelopment as a solution to the city’s housing problem and an opportunity to shift towards a more people-centric urban design.

Addressing concerns about parking, Matt Mahoney, a representative of KSE, reassured that while the current large parking lots around Ball Arena would be transformed, there will still be parking options available for those attending events. New parking structures, both above and below ground, are in the works, and KSE anticipates a continued trend of attendees opting for alternative transportation to the arena.

With groundbreaking expected between 2026 and 2027, this redevelopment project represents a major milestone in Denver’s urban growth and the future of commercial construction. Not only will the project redefine the area around Ball Arena, but it also aims to address critical housing shortages while fostering sustainable urban living for Denver residents. The mixed-use development will play a significant role in the city’s evolution, combining commerce, living spaces, and a more eco-friendly, accessible urban environment.

This ambitious project by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment will likely become a cornerstone in Denver’s redevelopment strategy, aligning with the city’s broader goals for affordable housing and urban sustainability. Sustainable Design Build is very excited to see such a large project come to the city and will be hopeful for its success as well as the benefits for communities and residents.