Denver commissions Civitas for long-term vision plan for Midtown redevelopment

The Centennial City Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on January 22, 2025, focused on the future development of Midtown, addressing significant land use changes and the long-term vision for the area. City officials discussed the ongoing engagement with the Economic and Planning Systems (EPS) firm to analyze the fiscal impacts of transitioning from office spaces to potential residential and commercial uses. This analysis aims to understand how these changes will affect the city's revenues, expenditures, and service providers.

The meeting highlighted the unique opportunities presented by current market conditions and the strategic location of Midtown within the Denver market. Officials emphasized the need for a comprehensive vision that goes beyond mere land use designations, aiming instead to create a vibrant, walkable neighborhood connected by parks, public spaces, and multimodal infrastructure.

To assist in this visioning process, the city has partnered with Civitas, a Denver-based urban design firm. Civitas will help develop a long-range plan that could guide development over the next 50 years. Their approach includes brainstorming sessions with city staff to sketch out ideas and establish guiding principles for the area's future.

The commission is set to receive further updates on the study's findings and the visioning process as it progresses, ensuring that decisions are informed by robust data and community engagement. This initiative marks a significant step towards revitalizing Midtown and enhancing its role within the city of Centennial.