Massive 30-Foot 'Rhingo' Statue Transforms Denver's RiNo District, Kicks Off $3B Community Development
Denver's vibrant RiNo Art District welcomed its newest - and largest - resident Thursday as developers unveiled "Rhingo," a towering 30-foot steel rhino statue that signals the beginning of an ambitious transformation of the historic Denargo Market area.
The colossal 22,000-pound art installation, selected through extensive community involvement, represents the first major milestone in a 17-acre redevelopment project that promises to reshape this corner of the Mile High City for Colorado families and visitors alike.
Community-Driven Development Takes Shape
"Whether you're climbing its sides, snapping a photo, or exploring our new parks and river activation, the rhino will welcome you to Denargo Market as a landmark that will be enjoyed for generations to come," said
Sean Campbell, CEO of Denver-based FORMATIV, who emphasized the installation's role in creating engaging public spaces.
Sean Campbell, CEO of Denver-based FORMATIV, who emphasized the installation's role in creating engaging public spaces.
What This Means for Denver Residents
Local families can look forward to:
- 4 acres of new public parks, plazas and recreational spaces opening this summer
- Protected bike lanes and improved pedestrian access
- A half-acre green lawn with pop-jet fountain
- Multi-sport courts for basketball and pickleball
- An already-completed 56-unit affordable housing community
Economic Impact for Colorado
The Denargo Market redevelopment, situated along the South Platte riverfront just north of downtown Denver, is zoned for 3 million square feet of mixed-use development. This massive project promises to create hundreds of local jobs while delivering new residential, retail, office, and hospitality spaces to serve Colorado residents.
Looking Ahead
While Rhingo's climbing features won't be accessible until later this summer, the sculpture - created through collaboration between local fabricators JunoWorks and Eldorado Climbing Walls - already stands as a symbol of Denver's commitment to blending art, community, and economic development.
Denver City Councilman Darrell Watson joined developers at Thursday's unveiling, marking what local leaders hope will become a new cultural landmark for Colorado families and a catalyst for continued growth in one of Denver's most dynamic neighborhoods.
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