Plans for a new pickleball court complex near Denver’s Civic Center Station have been put on hold due to budgetary constraints. The proposal, which included six pickleball courts, a seating area, and a shade canopy, was submitted by the consulting firm Stantec last year. The site, located a block west of the Colorado State Capitol at 1523 North Lincoln St., is currently an empty half-acre lot that serves as a drainage area next to the Regional Transportation District (RTD) bus stop at Colfax Avenue and Broadway.
Jon Ewing, a spokesman for the city, confirmed the decision to pause the project, stating, “Due to budget restrictions, we have paused the pickleball plan. We look forward to continuing our partnership with RTD and others and are exploring alternative options to activate this property in the future.”
The vacant lot has remained unused for many years, prompting interest from city officials in developing the space. Evan Dreyer, deputy chief of staff to Mayor Mike Johnston, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential when it was first announced, remarking, “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 original plan for pickleball courts may still be revisited, Ewing indicated that city officials are considering other, more cost-effective uses for the land. The lot is leased to RTD from a family trust on a long-term basis, but the transportation agency has agreed to allow the city to utilize the space for a period of three to five years.
As the city explores its options for the lot, community members remain hopeful that the area will eventually be transformed into a vibrant space for recreational activities. The pause in the pickleball project highlights broader budgetary challenges facing local governments and the necessity for innovative solutions in urban development.
With continued collaboration between city officials and RTD, the future of this property remains open to possibilities that can better serve Denver’s residents and visitors alike.
