Broncos Stadium at Burnham Yard: Residents Share Vision
The Denver Broncos’ plans for a new stadium at Burnham Yard have kicked off with the first community input meeting. City officials and team representatives met with dozens of residents to gather feedback on the expansive mixed-use development, setting the stage for future planning.
A New Vision for the Broncos and Denver
With the Broncos’ lease at Empower Field expiring in early 2031, the team has identified Burnham Yard as its preferred location for a new stadium. This project aims to transform the 58-acre abandoned railyard, expanding to over 100 acres with additional land from Denver Water and private parcels, primarily situated in the La Alma Lincoln Park neighborhood.
Beyond the Stadium: A Mixed-Use District
The vision for Burnham Yard moves away from the traditional stadium model surrounded by vast parking lots. Instead, the plan is to create a vibrant mixed-use district featuring housing, shopping, and restaurants alongside the new arena. This integrated approach emphasizes urban development and leverages existing infrastructure, including a light rail stop adjacent to the site, with hopes for a future Front Range Rail station.
| Feature | Traditional Stadium Model | Burnham Yard Vision |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Land Use | Massive Surface Parking Lots | Mixed-Use: Housing, Retail, Restaurants |
| Transportation Focus | Personal Vehicles | Light Rail, Pedestrian/Bike, Potential Front Range Rail |
| Community Integration | Isolated Event Space | Year-Round Active Neighborhood |
Community Voices: Hopes and Concerns
The inaugural community meeting at La Alma Recreation Center on November 19, 2025, provided a platform for residents to actively participate in shaping the “small area plan.” Informational boards lined the walls, and attendees used sticky notes and colorful stickers to highlight their priorities, from year-round community focus to celebrating history and culture.
Addressing Affordability and Equity
A primary concern for many residents, including Misty Lubin-Salazar, was the project’s potential impact on the affordability of the surrounding area. Mayor Mike Johnston acknowledged these worries, expressing a goal for long-time residents to “still feel home here” even as new development takes shape, underscoring the importance of equitable growth.
Rethinking Transportation and Access
While some, like Bonnie and Douglas Marts from Golden Triangle, voiced concerns about potential parking shortages during events, others embraced the shift. Jared Morgan, who lives near the site, was particularly excited about avoiding a “huge parking lot.” The emphasis on public transit and integrated parking within the mixed-use district aims to reduce reliance on personal vehicles, with Alex Parks hoping for improved pedestrian and bike crossings over I-25.
Enriching Neighboring Communities
Residents also highlighted the opportunity for the project to benefit historically underserved areas. Tsinni Russell, for instance, hoped the development could be “a boon for neighboring communities like Sun Valley across the river,” advocating for the project to serve all parts of the city.
What’s Next for the Burnham Yard Project?
This initial meeting marks the beginning of a multi-year process. The Broncos recently submitted a “large-area redevelopment plan” detailing preliminary stadium and entertainment district layouts. The city and team are committed to continued public engagement as the “small area plan” is developed.
Key Milestones on the Horizon
- Two more community meetings are planned for the first half of 2026.
- An urban renewal plan, a development agreement, a large development review, and a mobility study will begin this year.
- Negotiations over a community-benefits agreement will also start soon.
- The rezoning process for the land is set to begin next year, with construction slated for late 2027 through 2030.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Burnham Yard project?
It’s the proposed site for the new Denver Broncos stadium, alongside a mixed-use development featuring housing, retail, and restaurants. - Where is Burnham Yard located?
It’s an abandoned railyard primarily within the La Alma Lincoln Park neighborhood, southwest of downtown Denver. - What are residents’ main concerns?
Key concerns include maintaining affordability for current residents, managing transportation and parking impacts, and ensuring the development benefits neighboring communities. - When is construction expected to start?
Construction is projected to begin in late 2027 and continue through 2030. - How can the community provide further input?
Two additional community meetings are scheduled for the first half of 2026, and various planning processes will continue to invite public engagement.
The Burnham Yard stadium project represents a significant undertaking for Denver. As plans evolve, ongoing community input will be vital to ensure this ambitious development truly serves the needs and aspirations of all Denverites, balancing economic growth with community well-being.
Broncos stadium plan engages community feedback
