Provided by Denver NWSL

Back in March of 2025, Denver announced that it was looking into building a stadium that would seat 14,500 for a National Women’s Soccer League over at Santa Fe Yards near Broadway and I-25. The latest update reveals that a majority of Denver City Council Members support the project and vision to bring the stadium to fruition. But there is still a long way to go to figuring out the details, logistics, and more.

At a glance

• Denver is set to build a 14,500-seat women’s soccer stadium at Santa Fe Yards near Broadway and I-25 for its National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, which will debut in 2026. 
• The stadium, designed by Populous, is the first in Colorado specifically for women’s professional sports and one of the first in the U.S. It will anchor a larger entertainment district featuring restaurants, bars, shops, and possibly housing.
• Slated to open in 2028, the stadium will sit on 14 acres of land within a 42-acre site in Denver’s Baker neighborhood. 

Denver Approves Framework for Women’s Sports Stadium Deal

Initial Approval Granted

Denver’s City Council gave preliminary approval for a groundbreaking stadium dedicated to women’s sports — a first of its kind — despite initial skepticism and economic concerns. The proposed $270 million project involves the city contributing up to $70 million for site acquisition and preparation, with the NWSL team’s ownership group funding $200 million for stadium construction.

Not a Done Deal

Though 12 of 13 council members supported the framework, final approval is pending. They emphasized the need to review economic conditions and detailed planning in the coming months. No funds will be released until a final vote this fall after public input and design confirmation.

Stadium Plans

The 14,500-seat stadium is slated to open in 2028 on the Santa Fe Yards site in the Baker neighborhood. In addition to NWSL games, it will host community events, including concerts and graduations. It’s part of a broader mixed-use redevelopment with housing, restaurants, and a hotel.

Economic and Political Context

City officials project a $2.2 billion economic impact over 30 years, though some council members expressed doubts, citing typical underperformance of stadium-driven development. The city’s $70 million share will be funded through indirect savings from the 2017 Elevate Denver bond interest.

Concerns and Criticism

Councilwoman Sarah Parady opposed the measure, criticizing it as a public subsidy for a private enterprise. Others, like Councilman Paul Kashmann, warned of potential economic downturns affecting the project’s viability.

Community Commitments

Ownership group leader Rob Cohen stressed the importance of council support and pledged to work with local communities via a community benefits agreement. He said the stadium was vital to keeping the team in Denver.

Related Development: Park Hill Golf Course

The council also approved a land swap deal for the former Park Hill Golf Course to become a large public park, contingent on rezoning in June.

Mayor’s Perspective

Mayor Mike Johnston celebrated both approvals as transformational wins for the city, acknowledging the importance of transparency and public discourse.

Sustainable Design Build is eagerly following the progress of this exciting new development. Projects like the proposed women’s sports stadium not only provide cultural and recreational value, but they also enrich the broader community by driving investment, creating vibrant public spaces, and raising the profile of surrounding neighborhoods. As these landmark developments help increase property values and community engagement, homeowners may feel inspired to invest in their own properties through custom home projects, additions, or even accessory dwelling units (ADUs). These enhancements not only improve individual homes but contribute to the evolving fabric of Denver’s neighborhoods — aligning with Sustainable Design Build’s commitment to elevating residential spaces and supporting the city’s growth.