An exciting and unique re-development is in the works for the city of Glendale a city that has recently seen a good deal of change. Taking its cues from the riverwalk developments in San Antonio and the like, the Glendale Riverwalk is expected to become a bustling entertainment and shopping district in the heart of Denver.
Slated to begin construction in 2012, the proposed Riverwalk master plan includes 1 million square feet of entertainment, retail, restaurant, hotel, and concert space, which will include a Rugby Hall of Fame, a 4,000-seat amphitheater and a trolley system that will shuttle passengers to and from the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and Infinity Park.
At the center of the proposed project is a navigable channel, which will make this a true waterfront experience and the first of its kind in the metropolitan area. The man-made channel will extend the entire length of the 22-acre development. It will accommodate electric-powered boats that will seat approximately 20 passengers.
The gateway to the Riverwalk will be located at the intersection of Colorado Boulevard and Virginia Streets. There will be a bridge that connects Ash and Birch Streets across the channel. The Cherry Creek Bike Path, which currently runs along the north side of the creek, will be moved to the south side at this location to enhance the Riverwalk’s Pedestrian and bicycle –friendly experience.
According to the City of Glendale, “the intent of this new public improvement project is to create a beautiful greenway in the heart of Denver that encourages a variety of active and passive uses and demonstrates how well-cared-for natural areas can provide substantial and long-term economic value to adjacent entertainment/shopping/retail centers.”
Well, I certainly agree and am excited to see the results! Glendale’s otherwise sleepy reputation is changing and the city is becoming a vibrant part of the social hub of Cherry Creek. This Riverwalk should serve to create even more real estate demand in an already very desirable area.
