The Sports Castle at 1000 N. Broadway is moving closer to a major transformation.
Outdoor retailer evo is advancing plans to convert the 1926 Cullen Thompson Motor Company building into a flagship campus anchored by retail, service, food and beverage, and rooftop recreation.
The 3.5 story, 50,474 sq ft structure sits on a 0.34 acre corner at Broadway and 10th Avenue and has seen limited use since Sports Authority closed in 2016. evo currently operates its Denver store just a block north on Broadway and would relocate and expand into the historic building.
Urban design filings show a preservation forward approach along the primary Broadway façade, maintaining the ornate terra cotta detailing, Gothic inspired parapet, and historic windows. Interior plans retain the split level ramps that define the building’s character while introducing new exit stairs, updated systems, and a full building elevator to improve life safety and accessibility. The ground floor would house evo’s flagship showroom, rentals, and service shop, with additional retail tenants on the upper floors.
The most significant change is at the roof. The proposal removes the deteriorated non historic rooftop structure and replaces it with a new sloped addition set about 4 ft higher on the east half of the building. The addition is set back roughly one structural bay to reduce visibility from Broadway and align with the secondary brick façade. The 4th floor and roof deck are programmed for indoor recreation, light food and beverage, small events, and outdoor activity space. Mechanical equipment would be screened and positioned to limit visual impacts from the street.
Site plans also indicate reconstructed alley access, a dedicated loading zone, a new after hours entrance along 10th Avenue, and streetscape upgrades including trees, lighting, and bike parking.
Ownership acquired the property in 2021 for $6.5 million. The project is in early review and will require additional approvals before construction begins. If approved, the redevelopment would reposition one of Broadway’s most recognizable historic structures as a new experiential retail and community anchor.
