A new era dawns for Denver with the Broncos securing a central Denver site for their future stadium, promising urban revitalization. On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the Denver Broncos unveiled definitive plans to construct a new, privately funded, retractable-roof stadium at the historic Burnham Yard site in central Denver. This ambitious project represents a major investment in the franchise, the city, and the state, with plans for a transformative mixed-use district alongside the new sports venue.
A New Home for the Broncos
The selection of Burnham Yard as the “preferred site” for the future stadium marks the culmination of years of planning and discussion. The new stadium, featuring a retractable roof, is envisioned as the anchor for a dynamic mixed-use district, providing year-round entertainment and economic opportunities for Denver. The current Empower Field at Mile High, while a beloved landmark, would have required an estimated $700 million in upgrades to remain viable for the next 25-30 years, according to team officials.
Key Players and Their Roles
This transformative project is a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders. The Denver Broncos’ Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group, led by co-owners Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner, are spearheading the initiative and will privately fund the stadium’s construction. According to a statement released by the team, this private funding ensures that no new taxes will be levied on Denver residents for the stadium itself.
The City of Denver, under the leadership of Mayor Mike Johnston, and the State of Colorado, led by Governor Jared Polis, are critical partners, providing support for public infrastructure improvements. Governor Polis has been in talks with the team owners since 2022, as reported by Colorado Politics, emphasizing the state’s commitment to keeping the Broncos in Denver. Denver Water, which owns land adjacent to Burnham Yard, is also involved, with conceptual agreements in place for the Broncos to acquire a portion of their campus.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) previously owned Burnham Yard, having purchased it in 2021 after it ceased operations as a railyard in 2016. Local neighborhoods and community organizations will be extensively engaged throughout the planning process, ensuring that the development aligns with community needs and priorities. Historic Denver has expressed interest in preserving historic buildings on the site, highlighting the importance of respecting the area’s rich history.
Burnham Yard: A Strategic Location
The 58-acre Burnham Yard site, along with an additional 25 acres from Denver Water, offers a prime location for the new stadium and mixed-use development. Situated in West Denver, less than a mile southeast of Empower Field at Mile High, the site is centrally located between 6th and 13th avenues to the south and north, and bordered by Seminole Road and Osage Street to the west and east. This central location ensures easy access for fans and visitors from across the Denver metro area.
While other suburban locations like Lone Tree and Aurora were considered, the decision to keep the team within the city limits underscores the Broncos’ commitment to Denver. According to Denverite, the Broncos’ ownership group has quietly acquired land in the area since late 2023, investing over $150 million in the project.
A Vision for the Future
The new stadium is more than just a football venue; it’s envisioned as a year-round sports and entertainment destination for Denver. The retractable roof will allow for a wide range of events, from concerts and conventions to other sporting competitions, regardless of the weather. This flexibility will enhance the stadium’s value to the community and generate economic activity throughout the year. The Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group aims to transform Burnham Yard into a vibrant hub that includes housing, businesses, and public spaces, creating a thriving community that respects the area’s history while reimagining its future.
Community Benefits Agreement
A crucial aspect of the project is the commitment to a transparent Community Benefits Agreement process. The Broncos will work closely with the Denver City Council, local neighborhoods, and organizations like Denver Water to ensure that the development benefits the surrounding community. This agreement will address key issues such as affordable housing, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
Impact and Timeline
The announcement of the new stadium signifies a major privately funded investment into Denver’s future. While the stadium itself will be funded by the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group, the city and state will contribute to public infrastructure improvements, such as enhanced accessibility, connectivity, and multimodal transit options around the new development. These improvements will benefit the surrounding community year-round.
The Broncos anticipate that the new stadium will be ready to open for the 2031 NFL season, aligning with the expiration of their current lease at Empower Field at Mile High, which runs through 2030. This timeline allows for careful planning, community engagement, and construction, ensuring that the new stadium meets the needs of the team, the city, and the state.
Furthermore, the land where Empower Field at Mile High currently stands will revert to city ownership in 2030, opening up opportunities for the city to reimagine that site as a thriving community in West Denver. Mayor Johnston has hailed this development as a “win-win-win” for Denver, as reported by CBSSports.com, emphasizing the positive impact on the city’s economy, community, and future.
Conclusion
The Denver Broncos’ decision to build a new, privately funded stadium at Burnham Yard represents a significant investment in the city’s future. This project promises to transform a historic railyard into a vibrant mixed-use district, create a year-round entertainment destination, and ensure that the Broncos remain a vital part of the Denver community for generations to come. With careful planning, community engagement, and a commitment to sustainability, this development has the potential to be a model for urban revitalization and a source of pride for the entire state of Colorado.
