BREAKING: Plans for a pickleball court near Denver’s Civic Center Station have been paused due to budget restrictions, officials announced today. The project, which aimed to create six pickleball courts along with seating and a shade canopy, was proposed by the consulting firm Stantec last year but is now on hold indefinitely.
Located at 1523 North Lincoln St., this half-acre lot is situated a block west of the iconic Colorado State Capitol and has remained largely unused for years. According to city spokesman Jon Ewing, “We have paused the pickleball plan but look forward to continuing our partnership with RTD and exploring alternative options to activate this property in the future.”
The lot, currently fenced and filled with large rocks, has generated excitement among city officials. Evan Dreyer, deputy chief of staff to Mayor Mike Johnston, expressed enthusiasm for the potential of transforming the space, stating, “That piece of property has sat empty for years and years, and we’re all excited about the possibility of being able to do something really fun and cool there.”
While the pickleball courts remain an option, Ewing noted that the city is also considering cheaper alternatives to utilize the land effectively. The property is leased to the Regional Transportation District (RTD), which has long-term plans for the area but has allowed the city to use it for the next three to five years.
This development comes as Denver continues to seek innovative ways to enhance community spaces and recreational opportunities. Stay tuned for updates on possible alternatives for this vacant lot, as city officials explore various pathways to engage residents and activate the space.
As the city balances budget constraints with community needs, the future of the Civic Center lot remains uncertain but full of potential. For ongoing updates, keep an eye on local news sources as this story develops.
