Denver Summit FC has taken a significant stride toward realizing its vision by acquiring the necessary land at Santa Fe Yards for the construction of a new stadium complex. This development is set to become Colorado’s first stadium and entertainment district specifically designed to host women’s professional sports.
The Santa Fe Yards Development Plan
Stadium Capacity and Scope
The project centers around a planned 14,500-seat venue for Denver's new National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchise. An artist’s rendering illustrates the proposed stadium and surrounding recreational district located at the former Gates Rubber Co. site, situated at Broadway and Interstate 25.
This 14-acre redevelopment effort is being executed in partnership with the City of Denver and a global design firm. The ownership anticipates the facility will host between 40 to 50 ticketed events and up to 250 less-formal events annually.
Mixed-Use Community Integration
The overall district will feature mixed-use development, incorporating housing, hospitality options, and restaurants. Furthermore, plans emphasize creating strong pedestrian and bike connections, ensuring accessibility near public transportation hubs.
The stadium structure itself will be built with future expansion capabilities in mind, allowing it to accommodate larger crowds and host major marquee events down the line.
Financial Commitments and City Partnership
Investment Breakdown
The acquisition of the stadium land was finalized through an agreement between the team and the City of Denver. Under this arrangement, the City commits up to $70 million toward the project.
This municipal investment includes an initial $50 million designated for the land purchase and site preparations, such as improving pedestrian access. In parallel, Denver Summit FC has committed approximately $200 million toward the actual construction of the stadium facility.
Infrastructure Support
City officials are also actively pursuing an additional $25 million in federal grant funding. These funds would specifically finance the construction of a pedestrian bridge connecting the stadium site to the nearby I-25 and Broadway light rail station, crossing over freight rail tracks.
Leadership Reaction and Team Momentum
A Defining Moment
Rob Cohen, the Controlling Owner of Denver Summit FC, emphasized the significance of this milestone. "This is a defining moment for Denver Summit FC and for the future of women’s professional sports in our city,” Cohen stated.
He expressed deep gratitude toward Mayor Mike Johnston, the Denver City Council, and the community for enabling the vision to materialize. Cohen added that the project is expected to yield a positive community impact for future generations.
Recent Team Achievements
This land acquisition follows other significant organizational progress for Denver Summit FC. Earlier this year, the team secured 10,467 square feet of office space for its corporate headquarters.
The team recently played its inaugural 2026 NWSL home game on Saturday, following a historic opener where they set a U.S. attendance record for a professional women’s sports event with 63,004 fans.
Cohen concluded by acknowledging the supporters: "This moment belongs to the Denver Summit fans and leadership team and could not have happened without every neighbor and business owner who believed in this dream from day one.”
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