Platte Street Plaza, the underutilized passageway at the base of the Highland Bridge, is about to get a lot greener, cleaner and brighter. The area will soon become a dynamic gathering space and community asset thanks to a public/private partnership between Unico Properties LLC and the City of Denver, with the $1.7 million in equity required for the project furnished by Unico.
Located between The Circa Building and historic Zang Building, Platte Street Plaza’s new park-like design will promote connection and relaxation, while enticing visitors, nearby residents and employees to stop and explore the surrounding dining, retail and entertainment options in the area. Upon completion, Platte Street Plaza will offer free WiFi and will be equipped with power to host community and civic activities – from neighborhood meetings and farmers’ markets to pop-up events.
“Our vision for Platte Street Plaza will fill a gap in the current streetscape, creating a central community gathering place for the neighborhood,” said Unico Vice President and Regional Director Austin Kane. “We are working closely with the City of Denver to offer a park-like setting at the heart of Platte Street. Not only is this a boon to residents of and visitors to Denver, the plaza will also entice people to stop and explore the surrounding dining, retail and entertainment options in the area.”
Construction will begin this month and is expected to wrap up later this fall or early winter. Additional partners on Platte Street Plaza include landscape architect Dig Studio and general contractor Swinerton Construction. Unico will maintain clear pathways for both pedestrians and cyclists and all area businesses will remain open during construction.
“Recognizing how busy this corridor is, we’re committed to maintaining clear pathways for both pedestrians and cyclists,” added Kane. “We know construction can be a hassle, but we assure you that the final plaza will be worth it. We’re building this on behalf of the community and hope everyone feels welcome to enjoy it once complete.”
Platte Street Plaza also aligns with Denver Parks & Recreation and the Downtown Denver Partnership’s master plan for the city’s outdoor spaces, The Outdoor Downtown and the Downtown Denver Partnership’s Urban Forest Initiative. Additional partners on Platte Street Plaza include landscape architect Dig Studio and general contractor Swinerton Construction.
Rendering courtesy of Unico Properties LLC.
