$100M Investment Approved to Transform Downtown Denver in 2025
In a landmark move for the future of the Mile High City, $100 million in public investment has been approved by the Denver Downtown Development Authority (DDDA) for a dynamic mix of housing, business revitalization, park activation, and cultural development. This initiative—celebrated by Mayor Mike Johnston and the Downtown Denver Partnership—marks a major milestone in the continued evolution of Denver’s urban core.
Why This Matters for Downtown Denver
The DDDA was approved by voters in 2024 to unlock $570 million in funding without raising taxes or impacting the city’s existing budget.
- This initial $100 million allocation represents the first wave of projects aimed at revitalizing the city center into more than a business district.
- It’s a bold step toward building a central neighborhood district for all Denverites.
“This moment represents what’s possible when we invest in the future of Downtown Denver,” said Kourtny Garrett, CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership. “These projects lay the foundation for a thriving, connected, and community-driven urban core.”
New Housing in the Heart of Denver
Two major office-to-residential conversions will bring 236 new housing units, including affordable options for those earning 30–80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
- $17M for the Symes Building → 116 new units + retail + outdoor patio
- $14.5M for the University Building → 120 mixed-income units
This renovation will address both the housing shortage and the increasing vacancy rates in commercial buildings. Known as adaptive reuse, is a strategy encouraged through city initiatives and pilot programs.
Boosting Denver Business & Culture
The investment includes nearly $5.5M in support for innovative local businesses and arts venues, including:
- $2.7M → Green Spaces Market (affordable retail for artists and nonprofits)
- $750K → Sundae Artisan Ice Cream expansion on Glenarm
- $640K → Milk Tea People’s new flagship on 16th Street
- $400K → Denver Immersive Repertory Theater buildout
Reimagining Public Spaces & Parks in 2025
Downtown’s outdoor spaces will benefit from nearly $42M in upgrades designed to enhance safety, access, and year-round activation:
- $30M → Civic Center Park renovations (lighting, gardens, walkways, tree canopy)
- $7M → McNichols Building overhaul with garden dining and marketplace
- $5M → Skyline Park enhancements (performance space, accessibility, safety)
Redevelopment & Future Opportunities
To spark long-term downtown growth:
- $23M has been allocated for acquiring parking lots at the Denver Pavilions block (15th Street), unlocking mixed-use development and affordable parking opportunities.
What’s Next for Denver in 2025?
Projects with proposed funding over $500,000 will move on for final approval by Denver City Council. For ongoing updates and more details on the DDDA’s role in Denver’s urban transformation, visit denvergov.org/DDDA.
Neighborhoods that Benefit
All of Denver stands to directly benefit from these initiatives, but for people who already live in these neighborhoods, the impact will be even greater.
- Central Business District (CBD) → This area is in the heart of downtown, adjacent to the 16th Street Mall and the closest to all of the improvements.
- Union Station → Union Station is a recently renovated, sustainable neighborhood in downtown Denver where modern meets historical. This neighborhood is adjacent to all of the updates.
- Auraria → Auraria neighborhood is located in central Denver adjacent to Lower Downtown, which means the benefits of these upgrades will absolutely spill onto all residents.
Final Thoughts
The $100M DDDA investment is more than a downtown facelift—it’s a powerful vote of confidence in Denver’s future. From affordable housing and small business growth to vibrant parks and cultural revival, this transformative package sets the stage for a new era of living, working, and playing in Downtown Denver.
Thinking of investing, living, or opening a business downtown? Let’s connect—we’re here to help you find the right space at the heart of the action.
