��������

The CU Real Estate Network (CUREN) brought together more than 30 professionals from across Denver’s commercial real estate, design, legal and sports sectors for a conversation on one of the most exciting trends in the city: the rise of Sports-Anchored Mixed-Use Districts (SMDs). The energy in the room made it clear that Denver’s real estate community is eager to learn, collaborate and imagine what comes next.

While the panel opened by acknowledging Denver’s strong identity as a growing sports city, the discussion clarified that today’s development goals go far beyond the stadium itself. Across the country, SMDs are becoming year-round community hubs—and Denver is emerging as a standout example of what these districts can become. McGregor Square set the tone in 2021, and now projects like the Ball Arena redevelopment, the new Denver Summit FC stadium, the reimagined Burnham Yard, and new concepts in places like Greeley are showing the rapid pace of growth.

One resounding theme was how long and complex these projects are. Matt Mahoney, a senior vice president ��from Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, explained that the Ball Arena redevelopment has been in planning since 2015. He explained that sports districts thrive when they function as true neighborhoods—prioritizing safety and security while offering year-round programming, walkable spaces and inviting gathering spots beyond game days. “Long-rang planning and preparation for generational development” are essential ingredients to success, he said. “It’s not about real estate sales as ROI, it’s about getting it right and expanding the community.” For him, the goal is to build places that feel alive every day, not just when Colorado’s teams are winning.

Panelists also shared their perspectives on what it takes to make these districts possible at the city level. Shareholder Andrea Austin from Greenberg Traurig guided the audience through the reality of public-private partnerships and how cities must balance community needs with the financial and political pressures behind major developments. “You need to have a good municipal understanding and know when to bring in the experts to fill in the knowledge gaps,” she said. Strong legal structure, clear deal terms and a deep understanding of local politics are essential, she explained, especially when developers and teams take on significant risk to drive these projects forward.

The panel emphasized that SMDs only succeed with attention to the user experience. Lyndsey Archer, founder of Studio Archer stressed authenticity, especially for younger generations who want to feel connected to the places they visit. Building the right team of collaborators is also critical, she said. “You need problem solvers, pioneers, creative thinkers and people who think outside the box to tackle what has never been done before and who aren’t afraid to try new approaches.”

Panelists also discussed how constituents measure SMD success over time. Community engagement, team valuation, tax benefits to the city, and the quality of the game-day experience all play a role in a thriving sports district. Several speakers noted that programming outside of major events is a top indicator of long-term success, since it means that the district has become part of everyday life for residents.

Panelists agreed that the goal of any SMD project is to bring people together. Hearing experts exchange perspectives, challenge assumptions, and build on each other’s ideas underscored how important these cross-sector discussions are for the future of Denver’s sports and entertainment landscape. The CU Real Estate Network champions this kind of conversation by connecting alumni, industry professionals and thought leaders to explore key issues affecting the real estate industry. Visit the CU Real Estate network to learn more about upcoming events and ways to get involved.��