For the Future
Investing in the Next 100 Years of Civic Center Park
A world-class city deserves a world-class center city park, open and welcoming to everyone, from young people and families, to workers, residents, and visitors. Civic Center Park honors Denver’s past while evolving to meet the needs of the 21st century. The City and County of Denver, in partnership with Civic Center Conservancy, is leading a once-in-a generation transformation to ensure this historic heart continues to serve and inspire future generations of Denverites. Current projects include the Greek Theater and Central Promenade, the McNichols Building, and improvements to the grounds of the City and County Building.
The Project's Impacts are many!
The Park will be a spectacular, beautiful space for all residents to enjoy, linking surrounding cultural and civic institutions and neighborhoods, and becoming the outdoor, geographic core of the city.
- The Park will provide a performance home for both major events and community organizations.
- Re-envisioned by Studio Gang and Olin, Civic Center Park will drive tourism, drawing visitors from throughout the sate, region, and nation.
- This picturesque and active public space will spur economic development, new housing, and small businesses in nearby neighborhoods, helping re-energize the downtown district.
- Pedestrian access and ADA/stroller-accessible pathways throughout the entire Park will make Civic Center Park available and welcoming to all.
- The Park will showcase sustainability and beauty through native, climate-appropriate horticulture, water conservation, irrigation systems, and electricity access to eliminate the use of generators for events.
- Abundant green space, with shade, benches, and vibrant landscaping, alive with activity will promote healthy public gathering and increased safety in the Park.
Be Part of a Once-in-a-Century Investment in Civic Center Park
The Civic Center Conservancy is leading a transformative capital campaign to reimagine Denver’s most historic public space for the next 100 years.
With visionary designs by internationally renowned architect Jeanne Gang and her practice Studio Gang, alongside the celebrated landscape architect studio Olin, this National Historic Landmark is poised to become the centerpiece of a revitalized downtown Denver.
Anchored by a new performance pavilion and South Plaza entrance, the Park will unfold through a vibrant Central Promenade—layered with native landscapes, flexible gathering spaces, and pathways that invite exploration. This is a place where daily life and civic celebration meet: concerts and festivals, community programming, quiet reflection and spontaneous connection.Â
We are actively engaging visionary partners in a capital campaign to realize this once-in-a-generation investment.
For more information or to explore how you can play a leadership role, please reach out to Elizabeth “EB” Brooks, the Conservancy’s Director of Development & Communications.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ reflects current information developed in coordination with Denver Parks & Recreation. Construction details and timelines are subject to change through standard City processes. Last updated April 2026.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
What is Civic Center Next 100 project?
The Civic Center Next 100 project celebrates Denver’s
first National Historic Landmark and aims to reinvigorate Civic Center Park for
the next 100 years by introducing thoughtful, contemporary updates that will
create a premier destination for civic gatherings, community events, cultural
performances and daily use.
Led by Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR) with support
from the Civic Center Conservancy and others, the project builds on years of
community engagement and fulfills key goals of the community-drafted 2005 Civic
Center Master Plan, and the recently published Civic Center Next 100: Civic
Center Park + Bannock Street final concept design plan.
What does the project include?
The first phase of the Civic Center Next 100 is focused on reinvigorating Civic Center Park as a public space that more fully supports both everyday and event use and downtown Denver’s flourishing cultural life.
Key updates include:
- A rehabilitated historic Greek Theater with upgraded seating, stage and canopy for contemporary productions and increased use.
- Improved accessibility and circulation through pathways that better connect the park.
- A new plaza commemorating the Gang of 19 protest and the disability rights movement.
- Updated landscape design with new garden rooms, plantings, and plaza areas.
Credit: Denver Gov.
How does this work differ from the work that was completed during the Civic Center Park closure in 2021-2022?
Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR) closed Civic Center Park for six months from fall 2021 to spring 2022 due to unsafe conditions—the first such closure in the park’s history. During this period, professional restoration work was done, including graffiti removal, mortar replacement, and lighting improvements, all classified as maintenance upgrades. Following the closure, Denver Parks & Recreation was allocated additional budget to increase maintenance standards and ranger presence in the park, which has greatly improved the park conditions and perceptions of safety.Â
The current construction project goes beyond maintenance to deliver substantial physical improvements and new amenities, enhancing Civic Center Park’s capacity to host contemporary events and performances while improving its everyday usability.
How does the design honor Civic Center Park’s historic character?
The design of this revitalization project was carefully crafted with input from historic preservation experts serving on the project’s historic advisory committee. Drawing direct inspiration from Edward Bennett’s 1918 plan, the new Central Promenade design reestablishes this original pattern of a central walk flanked by two smaller paths, now complemented by loop walks. The project successfully balances historic preservation with contemporary design and modern accessibility requirements, creating accessible routes that follow historic patterns while providing universal access to key features including the Voorhies Memorial and Greek Theater.
The Greek Theater rehabilitation is particularly noteworthy, featuring a sensitive design that preserves the original structure while introducing an iconic yet subordinate canopy structure and reoriented bowl design. These improvements maintain the theater’s historic character while ensuring accessibility to all levels and features, demonstrating how thoughtful design can honor historical integrity while meeting contemporary needs and complying with Denver’s Civic Center Guidelines, the Denver Landmark Preservation Guidelines, and the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation.
Why is this project important for Downtown Denver’s future?
While Civic Center Park excels at hosting the city’s largest gatherings, it has historically been underutilized for daily activities. These improvements will transform the park into a vibrant everyday destination, drawing more residents and visitors year-round while enhancing downtown’s economic vitality.
The Civic Center Next 100 project also supports several DPR and City strategic plans, including:
- Denver’s Downtown Area Plan (2025)
- Game Plan for a Healthy City (2019)
- The Outdoor Downtown plan (2027)
- Listed as a transformational project in The Parks Legacy Fund Five Year Plan (2025-2029)
CONSTRUCTION & ACCESSIBILITY
When did construction begin and when will the Park reopen?
Construction began in Fall 2025. Phase 1 of the Civic Center Next 100 project is expected to be completed with the park fully reopened in late 2027. Construction schedules are subject to change based on weather, supply chains, and field conditions. Denver Parks & Recreation will announce major milestones as they are finalized.
For the most current timeline, visit the City’s project webpage:
Is the Park completely closed during construction?
No. While the central portion of the park including the Central Promenade and the Greek Theater area of the park will be closed during construction, other portions of the park remain open, including:
- The Broadway Terrance
- The area around the Voorhies Memorial
- The Great Lawn and Bannock Street in front of Denver’s City & County Building
Denver Parks & Recreation’s Permitting team is working with the construction contractor and the Civic Center Conservancy to accommodate activations in the park where possible. However, some large events in Civic Center will be affected during the construction period.
Will the renovations improve accessibility?
Accessibility is a central goal of this project. For the first time in the Park’s history, the Greek Theater will be fully ADA accessible. New pathways will replace stairs and other barriers throughout the park, ensuring all visitors can move freely and enjoy equal access to key features including the Voorhies Memorial and Greek Theater.
FUNDING
How is the project funded?
The Phase 1 design and construction budget totals $50 million, with funding secured through multiple sources and continued active fundraising by Civic Center Conservancy. Sources include:
- Denver Parks & Recreation
- Downtown Denver Development Authority (DDDA)
- Elevate Denver Bond
- Mellon Foundation
- Private donations facilitated by the Civic Center Conservancy
Additional elements may be incorporated into the construction project if supplementary funding is secured.
How do public funding sources and philanthropic contributions work together?
Private contributions secured through the Civic Center Conservancy and individual donors are designed to work in partnership with the public funding allocated for the Civic Center Park Next 100 Project. While public funding provides the foundation for the project, philanthropic support allows DPR to construct additional features identified in the Next 100 Project that may otherwise have been out of reach, improve the quality of planned amenities, and accelerate improvements so the community can benefit sooner. Together, public funding and private generosity make it possible to restore and reimagine Civic Center Park as the world-class urban public space that Denver deserves.
ROLES & PARTNERSHIPS
What is DPR’s role in the Civic Center Next 100 Project?
Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR) owns, operates, and maintains Civic Center Park and leads all capital construction decisions, procurement, contractor management, and oversight. The City is working with professional design, engineering, and construction teams—including world-renowned lead designer Studio Gang—through established public processes.
What is Civic Center Conservancy's role in this project?
The City and County of Denver is leading the Civic Center Next 100 design and construction project, with the Civic Center Conservancy serving as a critical supporting partner. Â
The Conservancy’s role includes the following functions in partnership with DPR:
- Financial support — Funded a portion of the design phase and is actively fundraising for construction and future phases
- Stakeholder engagement — Connects with residents, businesses, civic leaders, and community groups to ensure the project reflects community priorities
- Communications — Keeps donors, partners, and the public informed in alignment with City-approved messaging
- Programming — Continues to activate the park during construction and is planning expanded programming for the renovated spaces
- Stewardship – supports DPR’s operational and maintenance investments with volunteerism
How will the Park be maintained and programmed after construction?
Denver Parks & Recreation is exploring enhanced maintenance and programming models for Civic Center Park. The addition of new amenities creates opportunities for expanded regular programming, prompting the department to investigate service models that can provide higher levels of maintenance and activity/performance coordination. Throughout this process, Denver Parks & Recreation will maintain its established partnership with the Civic Center Conservancy, which has been the park’s long-term programming and stewardship partner.Â
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & HISTORY
How was the community involved in shaping this project?
Community engagement has been central to the Civic Center Next 100 project from the beginning. The project fulfills key goals of the 2005 Civic Center Master Plan—a community-drafted vision that laid out principles for balancing the park’s historic preservation with modern functionality and access.
More recently, a public engagement process in 2021–2022 informed the concept design, followed by a community update in October 2024 to present the final design. Resources from that process are available on DPR’s website:
What happens to Conservancy programming during construction?
While some programs have been adapted or paused to accommodate the construction footprint, the Civic Center Conservancy continues to:
- Provide free and low-cost public programming throughout construction to keep the park active and thriving
- Support safe public access where possible in open park areas
- Maintain donor and community engagement
- Plan and develop programming for the renovated spaces ahead of reopening
Construction is a temporary phase that enables a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient park in the years ahead.
STAYING INFORMED
How do I stay up to date on the project?
Several resources are available to follow the Civic Center Next 100 project’s progress:
- DPR’s Downtown Denver project news, including about Civic Center: sign up for the Outdoor Downtown email list
- City project updates and milestone announcements: DPR’s Civic Center Next 100 project webpage
- Civic Center Conservancy updates, programming, and events: civiccenterpark.org
Who do I contact with questions?
Depending on the nature of your question:
- Donor engagement, stewardship and Civic Center Conservancy specific events listed on our website: Civic Center Conservancy
- All other inquiries: DPR (parksandrecreation@denvergov.org)
Project Schedule
2021 – 2022: Concept Design + Public Engagement (complete)
Q1 2024 – Q2 2025: Final Design of Phase 1
Q4 2025: Start of Phase 1 Construction
2027: Substantial Completion of Phase 1
* Phase 1 Implementation includes improvements to the Greek Theater, Central Promenade, and South Plaza
Supporting the
Next 100 Years
Next 100 Years
Civic Center Park holds a special place in the life of Denver—a setting for celebration, reflection, civic expression, and everyday connection. The Next 100 initiative is a once-in-a-century opportunity to ensure this historic space continues to thrive for generations to come.
A transformational capital campaign is now underway to bring this vision to life—building on significant public investment and inviting private partners to help shape the future of Denver’s civic heart.Â
As the Park’s philanthropic partner, Civic Center Conservancy is leading the effort to engage individuals, foundations, and corporate leaders in meaningful investment opportunities.
For those who care deeply about Denver and the legacy of this shared space, we invite you to explore how you can play a role.
To learn more about becoming a supporter, please contact Elizabeth “EB” Brooks, Director of Development & Communications.
Next 100: Building Momentum for Civic Center Park
Significant public and catalytic funding has already been secured to advance the transformation of Civic Center Park, demonstrating strong citywide commitment and laying the groundwork for what comes next.
$40+ Million
Public dollars invested in Civic Center Park
$11 Million
Private dollars generated for investment in Civic Center Park
4 Million+
People drawn to Civic Center Park through intentional & inclusive programming & partnerships since 2005
Be Part of a Once-in-a-Century Investment
Civic Center Park holds a special place in the life of Denver—a setting for celebration, reflection, civic expression, and everyday connection. The Next 100 initiative is a once-in-a-century opportunity to ensure this historic space continues to thrive for generations to come.
A transformational capital campaign is now underway to bring this vision to life—building on significant public investment and inviting private partners to help shape the future of Denver’s civic heart.Â
As the Park’s philanthropic partner, Civic Center Conservancy is leading the effort to engage individuals, foundations, and corporate leaders in meaningful investment opportunities.
For those who care deeply about Denver and the legacy of this shared space, we invite you to explore how you can play a role.
To learn more about becoming a supporter, please contact Elizabeth “EB” Brooks, Director of Development & Communications.