URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated plan for six pickleball courts near Denver’s Civic Center Station has been officially tabled due to budget constraints, according to officials. The consulting firm Stantec had proposed the development, which would have included a seating area and shade canopy, but the project has now been paused indefinitely.
City officials announced the decision earlier today as they strive to find alternative uses for the half-acre lot located at 1523 North Lincoln St., just a block away from the Colorado State Capitol. Jon Ewing, a spokesperson for the city, confirmed, “We look forward to continuing our partnership with RTD and others and are exploring alternative options to activate this property in the future.”
The lot, which has remained empty for years and is currently filled with large rocks and a few small trees, is a drainage area near the Regional Transportation District’s (RTD) Colfax Avenue and Broadway bus stop. The city had hoped to transform this unused space into a community asset, but financial limitations have forced them to reconsider.
Evan Dreyer, deputy chief of staff to Mayor Mike Johnston, previously expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “That piece of property has sat empty for years and years, and we’re all excited about the possibility of being able to do something really fun and cool there.”
While the pickleball court idea has been shelved for now, city officials are evaluating other, more cost-effective options to utilize the land. As the situation develops, residents and pickleball enthusiasts will be watching closely for updates on potential future projects.
This latest decision highlights ongoing challenges in urban planning and resource allocation. The city is committed to finding a solution that meets community needs while navigating budgetary restrictions.
Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story as Denver officials seek to revitalize this underused space.
