Kroenke Family Expands Downtown Denver Empire: Future of Elitch Gardens and River Mile Project Shifts
In a major development reshaping downtown Denver's future, Colorado sports mogul Stan Kroenke and his family have acquired full financial control of Elitch Gardens, Meow Wolf, and crucial South Platte River properties from partner Revesco Properties, consolidating power over one of the state's most ambitious urban development projects.
The acquisition strengthens the Kroenke family's already substantial presence in Colorado's entertainment and real estate landscape, adding to their ownership of the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche. This move signals a significant shift in the trajectory of the ambitious River Mile development, which could potentially double downtown Denver's residential population.
Impact on Colorado's Entertainment Landmarks
For Colorado families concerned about the future of beloved attractions, KSE Executive Vice President Mike Neary offered reassurance:
"A day at Elitch's is a rite of summer for more than a million visitors annually. We intend to keep it that way and better than ever."
Both Elitch Gardens and Meow Wolf will continue operations at their current locations for the immediate future, though long-term plans remain unspecified. These venues attract visitors from across the Front Range, from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins, contributing significantly to the state's entertainment and tourism economy.
Vision for Colorado's Urban Future
Stan Kroenke outlined the strategic importance of the acquisition:
"Realizing sole ownership of these properties will allow us to streamline our comprehensive vision for the future development encompassing The River Mile and the adjacent Ball Arena campus."
The River Mile project represents one of Colorado's most ambitious urban transformations, with potential impacts including:
- Significant expansion of downtown Denver's housing capacity
- New economic opportunities for local businesses
- Enhanced riverfront development along the South Platte
- Potential transformation of central Denver's entertainment district
Former partner Rhys Duggan, President and CEO of Revesco Properties, expressed confidence in the transition: "We believe the blueprint has been set for the future of Central Denver and that both the Park and The River Mile vision are in good hands with Mr. Kroenke and his family."
As this development unfolds, Colorado residents and businesses will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the region's entertainment options, housing availability, and economic landscape. The consolidation of ownership under the Kroenke family marks a new chapter in Denver's urban development story, with implications reaching far beyond the immediate downtown area.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.