Park Hill Golf Course Rezoning Passed

The Denver City Council has officially approved the rezoning of the historic Park Hill Golf Course, closing a prolonged chapter in one of Denver’s most complex development sagas. This rezoning transforms the 155-acre site from private open space—its designation when operating as a private golf course—into public open space. This change enables the land to serve a broader purpose: becoming Denver’s fourth-largest park, accessible to all city residents.

The vision for the site is being shaped through collaborative community engagement led by Denver Parks and Recreation and the private firm Sasaki. Residents have proposed various features including sports fields, aquatics centers, pickleball courts, and skate parks. A small golf component may still find its way into the final plan. While the full development could take years and require significant funding, a temporary park will open in the summer with low-cost uses like walking paths and disc golf. For now, it will be known as “Park Hill Park.”

Ownership of the land is still temporarily held by Westside Investment Partners. Under an approved land swap, Westside will receive a parcel near Denver International Airport, while the city will take control of the golf course grounds. Until the transfer is finalized later this year, Westside is leasing the land to the city at no cost. The project has been backed financially through the Parks Legacy Fund—separate from Denver’s strained general budget—and may also receive support from the upcoming $800 million Vibrant Denver bond initiative.

Despite earlier controversy and a series of voter referendums rejecting residential or commercial development on the land, the community ultimately prevailed in securing its future as public parkland. Advocates like Penfield Tate compared the struggle to a David-and-Goliath fight, with grassroots momentum defeating institutional pushback. The outcome is a landmark decision in public space preservation and a model for future civic activism in Denver.

Sustainable Design Build’s Perspective on the Park Hill Transformation

At Sustainable Design Build (SDB), we’re inspired by the transformative potential that the new Park Hill Park brings to the surrounding neighborhoods. This is more than a rezoning decision—it’s the rebirth of a community focal point that reaffirms the value of open space, connectivity, and neighborhood identity. As Denver welcomes this new chapter, we see enormous potential for growth, community pride, and architectural renewal in Park Hill and the adjacent areas.

Homeowners near the future park are uniquely positioned to benefit from this investment in public amenities. With increased foot traffic, improved recreational access, and soaring local interest, this area is poised for a meaningful uplift in property value and lifestyle appeal. Now is a prime opportunity for residents to consider strategic home additions—be it sunrooms overlooking the green, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to support multigenerational living, or luxurious remodels that match the elevated identity of the neighborhood.

SDB understands the architectural heritage of Park Hill—its brick homes, tree-lined boulevards, and classic Denver character. Our team specializes in whole-home remodels and high-end additions that blend seamlessly with existing structures while introducing modern comforts. As community investment in Park Hill grows, we’re here to help homeowners reimagine their spaces for the future.

This historic change isn’t just about building a park—it’s about building momentum. At SDB, we believe in channeling that momentum into beautiful, lasting transformations that strengthen families, neighborhoods, and community pride. Let’s build something remarkable—together.