On September 4, a significant milestone was achieved in Denver as joint venture partners Golub & Company and Formativ, along with Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, officially opened more than four acres of new public parks and open space at Denargo Market. The opening marks a major progression in the redevelopment of the 17-acre site along the South Platte River, which once functioned as the heart of Denver’s wholesale grocery market dating back to 1939.
The morning press event included remarks from Mayor Johnston, who emphasized the development team’s unique decision to prioritize public spaces before any residential projects. He stated, “This is an incredible monument to what is possible in the City and County of Denver. Before building a single condo or apartment, this team committed to building public space first—parks where kids can play, neighbors can gather and families can enjoy the riverfront.” This approach not only highlights the commitment to community engagement but also aims to reshape the area into a beloved destination for all.
The history of the Denargo Market site has its share of challenges. In 1971, a devastating four-alarm fire left the area largely abandoned or utilized for industrial purposes for decades. It wasn’t until redevelopment efforts began in 2023 that the site began transforming into a vibrant, accessible space for the public. The new public area aims to foster gatherings, recreation, and year-round activities.
One of the standout features of the Denargo Market development is its proactive “public realm first” approach. The team made a substantial investment of $60 million upfront, focusing on addressing environmental remediation of a historic landfill, improving stormwater management infrastructure, upgrading utilities, and establishing a new street network that includes sidewalks, bike lanes, and other public amenities. This comprehensive strategy aims to make Denargo Market a dynamic destination right from its opening.
As a result of two years of construction, the site now boasts over four acres of well-designed riverfront parks, plazas, and greenspaces, seamlessly connected to Brighton Boulevard, downtown, and the South Platte River. At the heart of the public space stands Rhingo, a captivating 30-foot rhino sculpture named by the community, which serves as a focal point of this newly redesigned area.
Laura Newman, vice president of investment & development at Golub & Company, highlighted the transformation, stating, “What was once a vacant, industrial parcel is now a welcoming, people-first place. Before a single building went up, we opened more than four acres of public open space—a gift to the neighborhood that people can enjoy right now. From the play tower to the promenade, the plaza to the gardens, every element is meant to spark joy, connection, and pride for this community.”
The dedication to community involvement continued after the opening ceremony with a lively block party. This event allowed locals to get a taste of the year-round programming that Denargo Market will ultimately offer, such as outdoor movie nights, fitness classes, and food truck pop-ups, all aimed at promoting community connection and engagement.
Spanning 17 acres in the RiNo Art District, the Denargo Market redevelopment is zoned for substantial residential, office, retail, and hospitality space, with the potential for up to three million square feet of development. As one of the largest urban infill projects currently underway in Denver, it has been described as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for extensive revitalization.
Sean Campbell, CEO of Formativ, concluded the day’s festivities with a powerful message about the significance of the project for the community. “What we’re delivering today isn’t just for Denargo Market. It’s for Denver. These are your parks, this is your riverfront, and this is your neighborhood. Tonight’s block party is just the beginning—the first of many experiences that will make Denargo Market a true 24-hour community where people live, work, gather, and connect.”
image source from：milehighcre
