RiNo District Development Plan Moves Forward Despite Community Pushback

Council Votes 9-4 to Approve Phase Three

The Denver City Council voted Tuesday evening to approve the third phase of the River North Art District development plan, despite vocal opposition from longtime residents and small business owners in the area.

The plan calls for the construction of mixed-use buildings along Brighton Boulevard, adding approximately 800 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space to the rapidly changing neighborhood.

Residents Raise Concerns

At the public hearing preceding the vote, more than forty residents spoke, with the majority expressing concerns about the project’s impact on the neighborhood’s character.

Several speakers pointed to rising rents in the area over the past five years as evidence that new development has not lived up to promises of creating affordable housing options.

What Happens Next

Construction on the first buildings in Phase Three is expected to begin this fall, with completion targeted for late 2028. The council included amendments requiring that fifteen percent of new residential units be designated as affordable housing, up from the originally proposed ten percent.

The developers have also committed to funding improvements to the local transit infrastructure, including a new bus rapid transit stop at the intersection of Brighton and 38th Street.

Impact on Local Businesses

Small business owners along Walnut and Larimer streets in the district have expressed mixed feelings about the expansion. While increased foot traffic could boost sales, several shop owners worry about lease renewals and whether they’ll be able to afford to stay in the neighborhood.

The city’s Office of Economic Development has announced a grant program to help existing businesses navigate the transition, though details on eligibility and funding amounts have not yet been released.