2030-2032 Blake Street

Yesterday, the Denver planning board voted to approve the proposed Rockies Plaza at 2030-2032 Blake Street across from Coors Field.

Currently, the parking lot is vacant, occasionally used for game day and special event parking. The site is also occasionally used to support the future Excel Energy electrical substation located directly to the East of the site.

Due to an easement agreement between the Public Service Company of Colorado and the Major League Baseball Stadium District, there is currently a "no build" restriction on the site prohibiting vertical development.

Considering the lot is located in the heart of the Downtown District, the inability to build severely restricts the possible uses of the site.

Greg Feasel, COO of the Rockies went before the board to propose a zoning change to PUD-G 27 to encourage pedestrian-activated public spaces in order to enhance the festival street concept along 21st Street.

According to the zoning request, "21st Street has been identified and planned as a "Festival Street" and design work is underway along with recent funding to transform this street into a unique and dynamic experience. "

According to the PUD-G zoning district, a public event is classified as "an organized, staffed, gathering of not less than 50 people. Public events may be public or private and may occur over multiple days."

Also noted in the new zoning district is that a minimum of 12 public events are required per year with a minimum of 6 events being free of charge. This is exciting news as Denver could see another lively public plaza to coincide with McGregor Square.

We're not sure if Rockies Plaza will be ready for this upcoming season, however we'll be sure to check back with any updates.