The historic Tramway Nonprofit Center, located in northeast Denver, is set to undergo changes with the addition of affordable housing designed to benefit the local community.
Urban Land Conservancy (ULC), the nonprofit that owns the center, is planning to transform a vacant section of the property into affordable housing for the Cole neighborhood.
Andrea Burns, vice president of impact and engagement for ULC, emphasized the importance of utilizing the unused concrete pad, stating, “Right now, that portion of the block is a vacant concrete pad, and we know that there is a better use for that.”
She further explained, “It’s our mission to do affordable real estate for good. So we wanted to bring affordable housing to the Cole neighborhood.”
The Tramway block is located between Franklin and Gilpin streets and 35th and 36th avenues.
Originally serving as a streetcar service and storage area, the imposing brick building has parts that date back over a century.
The late Charles “Chuck” Phillips, a local businessman and philanthropist, previously owned the property and repurposed it as a space for various nonprofits.
In previous attempts to develop the site, ULC sought to build affordable condos but faced obstacles that prevented the project from moving forward.
Now, in partnership with Medici Communities, ULC is preparing to request a rezoning from the city to pave the way for the new housing development.
The proposed rezoning would not permit taller or denser structures than what is already allowed, yet it is essential for the upcoming project.
Currently, the area is zoned for four-story buildings, and the new designation would allow for the same height, ensuring that the development remains in line with current regulations, as Burns noted.
“It’s about the challenges related to the unique aspects of the site itself, as well as the existence of an older building that we want to conserve,” she explained.
With plans to submit the rezoning application and necessary documentation this week, ULC has been engaging with community members to gather input on the proposal for several months.
The planned housing project is anticipated to include a few dozen units available in various layouts and sizes.
Burns mentioned that construction could reach a height of four floors, but the precise number of units remains undetermined.
At maximum capacity, the site could potentially accommodate between 50 to 60 units, with plans to offer diverse living arrangements suitable for families.
“It wouldn’t be a building full of studio apartments. For example, we want to be able to accommodate families,” Burns stated.
All residential units will be subsidized and designated for lower-income individuals, although specific income limits have yet to be established.
While Medici would handle the construction and ownership of the building, ULC intends to retain land ownership through its community land trust, ensuring affordability for residents for a duration of 99 years.
In addition to developing new housing, ULC plans to maintain the Tramway building as a continuing hub for nonprofits, offering space at approximately 30 percent below the market rate.
The organization expressed hope that the new housing will serve as a resource for the clients of these nonprofits.
Historically Black neighborhoods like Cole have experienced significant changes, with many residents relocating to suburban areas due to rising housing costs and gentrification.
As a result, lower-income families can find themselves distanced from urban services, including nonprofits that are typically concentrated in city centers.
Burns noted, “And so many of those families are traveling from the outskirts of the metro area now to … be able to participate in some of those programs.”
To implement this vision, the Denver City Council must approve the rezoning, with ULC advocating for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) for the property.
PUDs allow for customized zoning adaptations, and ULC, along with Medici, is optimistic that affordable housing tax credits will enable funding for the project.
This initiative also aligns with one of Phillips’ long-held aspirations, as he had envisioned residential developments atop the Tramway building.
Phillips, who passed away in 2021, was known for his ventures including an auto body shop and a salvage yard.
Additionally, he established The Phillips Foundation and The Phillips Family Trust, both of which facilitated the acquisitions of the Tramway building and the historic Wyatt School.
image source from：https://denverite.com/2025/06/02/tramway-nonprofit-center-affordable-housing/
