Denver Announces Expanded Vision for East Colfax Development

Denver Announces Expanded Vision for East Colfax Development

Published on April 07, 2026

Mayor Mike Johnston today announced an expanded vision for East Colfax that will include retail and workforce housing alongside a rebuilt Denver Police District 6 Station. The development is timed to take advantage of the new East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, which is expected to wrap construction along that section of Colfax this year.

"Colfax has a little bit of everything, but if there's one thing it could use more of it's housing," said Mayor Mike Johnston. "This project delivers affordability without sacrificing Colfax's unique character, and with the BRT line in its final stages, will come just in time to enjoy one of the easiest commutes in the city."

Denver Police are nearing construction of a state-of-the-art facility on East Colfax and Washington Street that will serve Police District 6 and replace the current, aging facility. That project, approved by voters as part of the Elevate Bond, is expected to seek contract approval from Council and break ground this fall before wrapping by December 2027. The police station will provide more space for officers, address the community's desire for a greater police presence along the corridor, and feature a fully accessible community room for members of the public to gather. Officers will work at the Police Administration Building on Cherokee St. during construction.

"We want to thank the Mayor and the citizens who voted for this Bond to allow our officers to work in a more modern, up to date facility," said Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas. "This will allow for our officers to have a greater presence along the Colfax corridor. We look forward to keep this project moving forward and work with City Council as we go through the next phases of the process."

Owned by the city and vacant for more than ten years, Denver intends to take down the nearby Pharmacy Building and bid out the property to developers at little to no cost. The winning bidder will agree to the city's terms of building a mixed-use complex featuring ground floor commercial with workforce housing above. The city intends to issue a bid for the Pharmacy Building site this summer and begin demolition this year.

"By reimaging these two city-owned sites together we are making a smart, strategic investment that strengthens public safety, expands housing, and builds a more vibrant Colfax," said Councilman Chris Hinds. "When we get development right in the center of our city, everyone benefits."

Denver will continue exploring options for affordable and workforce housing along Colfax and will continue to invest heavily citywide to ensure anyone who wants to live in Denver can afford to do so.

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