Elitch Gardens theme park isn't going anywhere anytime soon, but the area surrounding it is one step closer to being developed into a new urban neighborhood.
The Denver City Council voted 12-0 on Monday to give Revesco Properties permission to start working on a new 62-acre riverfront development. The council also approved a rezoning amendment for the area to encourage similar pledges from other developers.
Revesco Properties shared plans for the site named "The River Mile" back in March. A spokesman for the project said the goal is to build a place where families want to live and work.
Plans include 8,000 residential units, schools, retail and restaurants. The project also includes access to the South Platte River, with a mile-long riverfront.
The firm's long-term vision for the area will take place in multiple phases and will involve working closely with the community to meet city guidelines for downtown redevelopment, which include walkability, affordable housing, open spaces and connectivity.
'River Mile' project in downtown Denver
The initial phase of development will make better use of the 17 acres of surface lots surrounding the theme park by building a central parking garage on the property.
Elitch Gardens theme park will stay for now. A spokesman said if and when the time comes to move the park for this development, the owners will find a better home.
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