Downtown Westminster soon will get more apartments, food hall, park
Exciting developments are on the horizon for Downtown Westminster, including a three-acre community park, an Asian-themed food hall, and a multitude of new apartments and townhomes. These additions are breathing new life into the major redevelopment project, paving the way for a vibrant city center to emerge where a once-thriving shopping mall stood.
Heather Cronenberg, the city’s real estate development manager, expressed optimism about the upcoming phase of development, anticipating a draw from all corners of the metro area. The transformation of Downtown Westminster, situated near North Sheridan Boulevard and U.S. 36, has been in progress for about 15 years, with some setbacks along the way.
Looking ahead, Cronenberg envisions another 15 years of progress to bring the project to completion. The next phase will see the approval of two significant residential projects by Westminster City Council, as well as the opening of the highly anticipated Center Park and a 49-unit affordable housing project for seniors.
Additionally, a seven-restaurant food hall, Red Lotus Den, is set to open next year, adding to the diverse culinary offerings in the area. Owner Henry Lee is enthusiastic about the food hall becoming a destination hotspot, attracting a steady stream of visitors.
While the journey to revitalize Downtown Westminster has faced challenges, city officials remain committed to the long-term vision. Rodney Milton of the Urban Land Institute of Colorado acknowledges the inevitable growing pains of such ambitious projects but emphasizes the importance of patience and strategic planning.
‘Elements of gathering and connection’
Westminster Councilwoman Sarah Nurmela highlights the importance of creating spaces that foster community engagement and connection in Downtown Westminster. The area’s transformation from a bustling mall to a thriving downtown district aims to serve as a central hub for residents and visitors alike.
The retention of iconic structures like the JCPenney department store and the Bowlero bowling alley adds to the area’s charm and history. Nurmela emphasizes the significance of preserving these unique elements that contribute to the narrative of Downtown Westminster.
As Downtown Westminster continues to evolve, with a focus on mixed-use developments and enhanced public spaces, residents like Joao Zeraick express a desire for more local dining options and a brewery to further enrich the area’s culinary scene. The city’s recent activation efforts, supported by tax revenues generated within the district, aim to attract more foot traffic and community involvement.
The ongoing revitalization of Downtown Westminster has already begun to yield positive results, with increased tax revenues and a growing sense of vibrancy in the area. The future looks bright for this ambitious urban renewal project, signaling a new chapter in the history of Westminster’s city center.
