On Tuesday, in a historic announcement with city and state leaders, the Denver Broncos selected Burnham Yard, a former historic railyard in downtown Denver, as the site of, at least for now, a new privately funded retractable-roof stadium and adjacent mixed-use district. This was a critical vote, leading to an ambitious redevelopment that will serve as a pillar of both the future and the urban renewal of the city
Burnham Yard to become home of Denver Broncos’ next stadium
Burnham Yard occupies about 58 acres and is a reminder of Denver's industrial past. After almost 150 years of service as a railyard, it closed in 2016 and was bought by the state in 2021. The Broncos considered alternative locations in Lone Tree and Douglas County, but ultimately decided to remain in the city center, which delighted Mayor Mike Johnston and Governor Jared Polis.
The new stadium is due to be completed in time for the 2031 NFL season, when the Broncos' lease at Empower Field at Mile High also expires. Importantly, the fully funded stadium/development, with no new taxes on residents, will be paid for by the Walton Penner Family Ownership Group. The support from the public will be directed more towards investments in infrastructure and community improvements.
Project aims to create a year-round entertainment district
The development plan aims for far more than just a stadium. The project will turn Burnham Yard into a dense, mixed-use neighborhood with restaurants, shops, housing, offices, hotels, entertainment, and public spaces. The aim is to build a year-round draw for locals and tourists alike.
The project will be shaped by community engagement. In addition, the Broncos have committed to starting a Community Benefits Agreement process, in partnership with the Denver City Council, the local neighborhood association, and groups like Denver Water, to maximize the benefit of the project for the greater community. This approach seeks to include as many voices in planning as possible and do so as transparently as possible.
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Ranking the 10 most iconic NFL stadiums of all timeThe Broncos now have tentative agreements to buy 58 acres of railyard property and a further 25 acres from Denver Water. Public improvements like improved transit access would be paid for by the city and state, but no taxpayer funds would be used to build the stadium.
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