H&M continues Colorado expansion
H&M, Hennes & Mauritz, one of the world’s largest fashion retailers, continues its Colorado expansion.
The retailer recently inked a lease at Colorado Mills in Lakewood, where it will open its 23,000-square-foot store this fall.
The opening of the Colorado Mills location is part of the Swedish retailers plans to expand "greatly" throughout the West.
H&M at Colorado Mills will include collections for ladies, men, young ladies and y…
PeakView at Dabling sees occupancy skyrocket
Northstar Commercial Partners recently invested in a 152,023-square-foot building in Colorado Springs, where occupancy rocketed from 28.57 percent at contract negotiation to 73.03 percent at closing.
Northstar, which specializes in acquiring opportunistic commercial real estate assets throughout the United States, bought a controlling interest in Dabling Properties LLC, which owns the facility, PeakView at Dabling, at 5825 Mark Dabling Blvd.
“We’re extremely excited …
Construction starts on Elan Union Station project
Construction is under way on a mixed-use project that will bring King Soopers to Lower Downtown Denver.
Martines|Palmeiro Construction recently broke ground on Elan Union Station, a seven-story, approximately 642,000-square-foot development at 20th Street and Chestnut Place that will feature 314 apartment units above-ground level retail and two stories of underground parking.
“We are really excited to be building such a high-profile property in Denver,” said Michael …
Mental Health Center receives LEED Platinum certification
The Mental Health Center of Denver’s Recovery Center recently was awarded LEED Platinum certification, representing the first major reuse and revitalization of a building in the former University of Colorado Health Sciences Center campus in Denver.
The certification is part of MHCD’s vision of being the greenest mental health facility in the country.
“We believe that the Recovery Center is the only mental health facility in Colorado and the second in the nation…
A&P celebrates completion of Rangely District Hospital
Adolfson & Peterson Construction’s AP Healthcare group recently celebrated the completion of the Rangely District Hospital.The replacement facility was completed three months early, on budget and with no contractor-initiated change orders.
The high-tech, single-story medical facility is a 72,367-square-foot critical access hospital that includes 18 beds, labs and clinic space, and provides primary and emergency health care services for residents and visitors of Northwes…
Denver sees 10 percent increase in lumber costs
According to the latest construction cost report from property and construction consultant Rider Levett Bucknall, the construction industry is recovering from the worst effects of the Great Recession and should experience modest growth throughout 2013.
RLB cites the strengthening of the Architectural Billings Index, prepared by the American Institute of Architects, as just one sign of the recovery. The index rose to 54.2 in January from a mark of 51.2 in December.
Overall constr…
Work begins on new commercial development in Gunnison
Construction has started on the first new commercial development in Gunnison in years.
Denver-based Drake Real Estate Services recently acquired a 4.8-acre site fronting State Highway 135 and accessible from Van Tuyl Circle where it is developing the Blue Mesa Shopping Center.
The Blue Mesa Shopping Center will comprise approximately 40,000 square feet and be anchored by Tractor Supply Co. on one of the four pad sites that make up the development.
“It’s huge for Gun…
Denver projects detailed in President's 2014 budget
The U.S. General Services Administration recently announced major public building construction and repair projects outlined in President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2014 Budget.
The budget proposal calls for common sense investments in the nation’s public buildings managed by the GSA.
“By investing in our public buildings, a smaller federal footprint and improved border crossing stations, GSA will not only create savings for the American people, but also assist in prov…
EDCC awards its 2013 awards for excellence
The Economic Development Council of Colorado recently awarded its 2013 awards for excellence in the field of economic development in Colorado.
This year’s recipients were chosen from seven categories:
Volunteer of the Year – Commissioner Jill Repella of Douglas County
…
HOK working on Byron G. Rogers office building
The modernization of the Byron G. Rogers Federal Office Building in Denver is under way.
HOK is the design architect on the design-build team for the modernization of the 18-story building for the U.S. General Services Administration.
The team was challenged to design an affordable, highly energy-efficient retrofit of a large historic existing building while creating a modern, flexible workplace for 11 federal agencies. The project included complete design and construction for u…
High-tech manufacturing bldg. trades for $2.5m
Alliance Storage Technologies Inc. purchased a Colorado Springs high-tech/manufacturing facility at a fraction of replacement cost.
The firm, which specializes in professional data archiving solutions for secure archival data, paid $2.5 million for the 51,588-square-foot industrial building at 10045 Federal Drive.
Alliance Storage is under way on renovations to the building, built in 1996, according to public records, and is expected to fully occupy the building in three to four…
City Council approves redevelopment of 104th Ave. site
This month, demolition and remediation will start on a former Target store in Thornton.
The city of Thornton, Thornton City Council and the Thornton Development Authority made the determination to demolish the site.
“We are certain the demolition of the vacant former Target building will create a positive momentum that will spur new development interest on the site,” said Thornton Interim Economic Development Director Jessica Erickson. “The redevelopment is an …
Data reveals stronger employment growth in metro Denver
Revised data for employment shows annual growth was even stronger than estimated in metro Denver, with 37,300 jobs added in 2012. The annual benchmark revision of the employment data reflects an increase of 2,800 more jobs than the previous estimate, according to data compiled by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. in its Monthly Economic Summary for April.
In addition to employment, retail sales and residential building permit annual data also were revised …
AIA Denver to host Box City for Kids
The American Institute of Architects Denver chapter invite area children to participate in Box City for Kids, a free and unique children’s event that promotes an understanding of historic preservation and urban design by combining art, architecture, creative thinking, city planning, design, construction, fun and learning into one comprehensive educational experience. Children in kindergarten through fifth grade (accompanied by adults) will experience the design and cons…
Major milestone reached with $135m design-build project
JE Dunn Construction, in conjunction with architecture, engineering and planning firm SmithGroupJJR, recently celebrated a major milestone of the U.S. Department of Energy’s new Energy Systems Integration Facility on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory campus in Golden.
A certificate of substantial completion was issued for the $135 million design-build project, allowing staff to occupy the 182,500-square-foot facility. Research equipment relocation and laboratory…
Black Hawk development site sells for $7.5m
A roughly 45-acre site that could potentially accommodate more than 1 million square feet of development, recently sold in Black Hawk for more than $7 million.
Jacobs Entertainment, through Black Hawk/Jacobs Entertainment LLC, acquired the property, locally referred to as the “Dakota/Black Hawk site,” which comprises 2.23 acres of casino land, including 40,788 square feet specifically zoned for gaming, and 43 acres of additional land.
“We saw a good opportunity…
New energy, capital coming to Shannon Hills Apts.
A California-based real estate investment group is set to inject new life into its latest multifamily property in Colorado Springs.
Western Investment Partners recently paid $3.42 million, or $48,786 per unit, for the 70-unit Shannon Hills Apartments at 2110 E. La Salle St.
“This is an opportunity to inject new energy and capital into a property with great potential,” explained ARA Colorado’s Kevin McKenna.
“It was owned and self-managed for a number of …
H&M, Loft coming to The Streets at SouthGlenn
H&M, Hennes & Mauritz, announced its continued expansion in the Denver-Aurora metropolitan area with its opening of a new location at The Streets at SouthGlenn. The Streets at SouthGlenn store, slated to open this spring, represents the fourth H&M location along the Front Range.
The approximately 23,000 square-foot store will offer collections for ladies, men, young ladies and young men, with separate “store within store” sections …
Mortenson starts 'gateway' project on UCCS campus
Mortenson Construction has broken ground on the University of Colorado Colorado Springs’ first design-build project – and the second project of its kind in the state.
“For the university, the main goal is it’s not just a parking structure but it’s a gathering space,” said Chris Knight, design phase manager at Mortenson. “The project will serve as a gateway to the west side of the campus, recreation center and a gathering place for the com…
Maintaining historic buildings 'key' to fabric of downtown
Repairing stone on the exterior to the historic Brown Palace Hotel may seem like an inevitability for a building constructed in 1892.
However, to Rhonda Maas, it is work like this that is crucial to the vitality of a downtown.
“Maintaining historic buildings is key to strengthening the fabric of downtown,” said Maas, president of Building Restoration Specialties Inc., which recently was awarded the contract to complete repairs, such as repairing stone on the exterior…
Grand Junction to light up Times Square in NYC
The Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau partnered with the Grand Junction Economic Partnership in an effort to expand the community’s profile.
The latest effort is an electronic billboard near Times Square in New York City that will showcase images and activities in Mesa County. The advertisement will run through April 14. It is estimated that more than 300,000 people will see the advertisement daily.
“I am excited about the strong partnership GJEP and the V…
Walmart to anchor Garland Center redevelopment
Walmart is coming to Northglenn – and with it building a store that will meet the needs of the community.
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. recently announced plans to anchor the redevelopment of Garland Center in a joint project with the Northglenn Urban Renewal Authority. The 41,000-square-foot Neighborhood Market will feature a full grocery store as well as a pharmacy.
“We are excited to bring this project to our Northglenn customers,” said Walmart spokesman Joshua Phair…
GSA, design-build partners balance sustainability, history
After nearly two years of construction, work is complete on what is slated to be the U.S. General Services Administration’s first site net-zero energy building on the National Register.
The GSA recently rededicated the 95-year-old Wayne N. Aspinall Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse at 400 Rood Ave. in Grand Junction.
The $15 million project, financed with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding, is designed not only to be the GSA’s first site net-zero energ…
Center City Plaza sells for $5.05m
Center City Plaza, a sought-after office/medical office building in Colorado Springs’ central business district, recently sold for $5.05 million.
Center City Holdings LLC, represented by Kevin O’Neil of The O’Neil Group Co., who also was a principal in the transaction, purchased the 37,000-square-foot building at 455 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
“Center City Plaza is the nicest building in the CBD under 50,000 square feet,” said Ted Link of Cascade Commercial…
On Deck launches Denver hub
On Deck announced today the opening of a new Western regional office in Denver. The Denver office, which opened with 16 employees, will expand to over 200 professionals in the next two years across sales, operations and technology functions. Governor John Hickenlooper and Mayor Michael B. Hancock presided at an inaugural ceremony for local small business owners, business partners and government officials.
“Having a Western regional hub allows us to better reach and se…
RJM Construction starts Mercury Payment office renovations
RJM Construction has started a 65,000-square-foot office renovation for Mercury Payment Systems.
Mercury is expanding its existing space in the Metropoint II office building at 4610 S. Ulster St. in the Denver Tech Center.
RJM Construction is renovating space on the three floors to accommodate Mercury’s growing payment and call center services, including an expanded data center with 24/7 UPS service and an emergency backup generator. The sixth floor renovations will be com…
River Run apartments sell for $17 million
The only 100 percent market-rate apartment community in the Vail Valley traded in a $17 million deal.
A Texas-based real estate investment group purchased the River Run apartment property for $17 million after a $400,000 credit to the buyer at closing, which represents a price per unit of $145,299 and a price per square foot of $146.17.
“River Run is made up of 117 units and has a condo map already in place. The buyer intends on maintaining this as apartments for the time …
RTD receives unsolicited proposal for North Metro rail
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has received a confidential unsolicited proposal for the North Metro Rail Project, part of RTD’s FasTracks program.The proposal was submitted this afternoon by a team led by Graham Contracting Limited. RTD staff will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal consistent with the agency’s Unsolicited Proposals Policy to see if the proposal has merit. If so, RTD will then pursue a competitive procurement process and rele…
Healthy outlook for region in 2013
Several economic indicators posted positive numbers in 2012, pointing to significant progress in the economy and a healthy outlook for the region in 2013, according to data compiled by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. in its Monthly Economic Summary for February.
Employment in metro Denver grew at a steady pace in 2012 and will continue to expand through 2013. The recently released 2013 Economic Forecast expects employment growth of 2 percent in 2013, slightly below th…
Roth Sheppard, Jordy start work on new Izakaya Den
Construction has begun on Izakaya Den’s new location.
Hiro & Co., doing business as Den Corner Restaurants, in collaboration with Roth Sheppard Architects and Jordy Construction, will unveil the new Izakaya Denver in late May.
The restaurant will be located in the former Pearl Street Grill location at 1487-A S. Pearl St., near its current location at 1518 S. Pearl.
Roth Sheppard is designing the new restaurant, slated to feature a grand staircase, glass enclosed eleva…
Atlas Prep buys 'once-in-a-lifetime' building
Atlas Preparatory School is expanding in Colorado Springs.
The school recently acquired 1450 Academy Park Loop, where this fall it will open ninth grade and then a phased expansion – one grade per year – into the facility to eventually house grades nine through 12.
CSDC Atlas LLC paid $3 million for the two-story, 67,000-square-foot office building, previously occupied by General Dynamics.
“The building worked well for a retrofit by Atlas,” explained Mik…
A&P breaks ground on cancer center in Fort Collins
A&P Healthcare, a group of health care construction professionals within Adolfson & Peterson Construction, recently broke ground on the University of Colorado Health’s second phase of its new cancer center in Fort Collins.
The second phase is a 30,000-square-foot addition to the existing oncology clinic and radiation oncology department. The two-story center will be located on UC Health’s Harmony campus in the city’s southeastern area. The outpatient fac…
Colorado continues to be among LEEDing states
Colorado continues to be a LEEDer – at least when it comes to green building.
The U.S. Green Building Council released its annual list of the top 10 states for new LEED certifications in 2012, on which Colorado ranks No. 3. Last year, Colorado was ranked No. 2.
Colorado’s ranking is hardly surprising, noted Angie Fyfe, executive director, USGBC Colorado Chapter.
“The level of commitment and talent among Colorado’s green building community is demonstrated…
Gateway project planned for Trinidad
Preliminary planning is under way on a mixed-use project designed to be a catalyst for the city of Trinidad.
Initial details regarding the La Puerta de Colorado project recently were announced at a press conference regarding the development near downtown and is set to include an event center, baseball training field, classic car museum, brewpub, sporting goods store, movie theater and hotel.
“It will represent the renaissance of the city of Trinidad, a new beginning,&rdquo…
Retail centers sell for $31.5 million
A pair of shopping centers in Colorado Springs recently sold for $31.5 million.
TKG Uintah Gardens Development LLC and TKG Academy Place LLC, out-of-state limited liability companies, purchased the Uintah Gardens Shopping Center and Academy Place Shopping Center from Weingarten Realty.
“Both Uintah Gardens and Academy Place received strong interest from the investment community given their infill locations and solid tenant mix,” said Brad Lyons of CBRE’s Retail…
Starbucks opens new concept store in Northglenn Greens
Starbucks Coffee has opened a new drive-thru and walk-up location at Interstate 25 and 104th Avenue in the Northglenn Greens shopping center on Bannock Street in Northglenn.
The 480-square-foot concept store is only the second Starbucks location like it in the nation and a model that will be used for future stores worldwide.
The store was manufactured in the United States using a reclaimed shipping container from China. Both the inside cabinets and flooring are constructed from …
Shoppes on Academy sells at nearly $400 per square foot
A retail property along the Academy Boulevard corridor recently sold for nearly $400 per square foot.
JK Capital LLC paid $3 million, or $394 per sf, for the Shoppes on Academy, a 7,599-sf retail center at 7214 Academy Blvd. in Colorado Springs.
“It was a good deal for both the buyer and seller,” said Jason Schmidt of Cushman & Wakefield of Colorado Inc. “It’s a well-located, nicely constructed center occupied by stable tenants.”
GH Phipps to build new Hunger Relief Center in Denver
Caring is at the foundation of a planned Denver facility.
GH Phipps Construction Cos. was awarded the job of building a new Hunger Relief Center for Metro CareRing, one of Denver’s largest hunger relief programs, which distributes between 4,000 and 6,500 pounds of food, baby items and personal care products every day.
Currently, Metro CareRing is raising $5.5 million to fund construction of the new 15,000-square-foot center, which will be built on the existing site a…
Taylor Farms facility sells for $15.2 million
Taylor Farms’ facility sold in one of, if not the, largest industrial investment transactions to close in Colorado Springs in 2012.
Los Angeles-based Pacific View Investments paid $15.2 million for the 83,616-square-foot industrial building at 890 N. Newport Road in the Aerotech Commerce Center.
“Pacific View Investments likes strong, long-term, net-leased, great quality buildings, which it found in the Taylor Farms’ building,” said Marty Cohan of the Wes…
Jax Mercantile expands Lafayette presence
Jax Mercantile has expanded into a second Lafayette store.
The Colorado-based company opened its first Lafayette store, a 37,000-square-foot Jax Outdoor Gear in June 2010. In November, the 57-year-old company hosted a soft opening for its second store, Jax Ranch and Home. The 45,000-sf retail store is home to pet and equine supplies, hardware, paint, Western wear and an assortment of lawn and garden supplies and equipment.
A grand opening will be held in the spring, when farm an…
'Expanding' horizons for mechanical design
It’s an energy-conscious building that “expanded horizons” for mechanical design.
The Denver Department of Human Services Eastside Building, for which ACEC Colorado recently awarded MKK Consulting Engineers Inc. a 2013 Engineering Excellence Award, is part of the growing trend of furthering sustainability through mechanical design.
“This project gave us a great opportunity not only to help repurpose an existing vacant site with a facility that serves the …
Economic report shows that center city on upswing
The Downtown Denver Partnership recently released its latest Quarterly Economic Update for 2012.
“We are seeing steady improvement in important economic drivers for downtown Denver such as the strengthening housing market, increased retail sales tax collections, and a falling unemployment rate,” said Jim Kirchheimer, Downtown Denver Partnership senior vice president of economic development.
“The Quarterly Economic Report highlights the key fac…
Shaw Builders breaks ground on senior housing
Shaw Builders LLC is under way on a senior housing project minutes from downtown Denver’s core.
The 101-unit University Hills Senior Residences project will be a four-story, wood-framed construction built over secured, underground parking designed to provide quality, independent-living options for seniors aged 62 to 75.
Shaw Builders is the contractor for the project, located at 2775 Southbrook Drive in Denver. Also part of the project team are owner and developer The Resi…
Job growth continues to influence CRE market's recovery
Job growth will be key to Colorado Springs’ overall commercial real estate market’s recovery, according to Sierra Commercial Real Estate’s 2013 market outlook.
The firm recently held a forecast event discussing the future of the city’s retail, office, industrial and land submarkets. The outlook noted that job growth was statistically flat in 2012 and without those numbers “dramatically” improving, 2013 will continue to be a mixed bag.
The reta…
Construction starts on workforce housing in Grand Junction
A much-needed workforce housing community is just months away from helping meet the demand for affordable apartments in Grand Junction.
The Grand Junction Housing Authority is developing the Village Park Apartments, a two-phased 132-unit community at 28th ¼ and Patterson roads.
The initial, 72-unit first phase is slated to deliver its first units in July with completion by Halloween.
Read more in the January 2 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Construction spending slips, according to AGC
Construction spending dipped from October to November, but resolution of the uncertainty regarding federal taxes for 2013 should unleash more private construction investment, according to an analysis of new federal data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials warned, however, that unresolved issues about federal construction spending, including storm relief for northeastern states, will hold down public construction spending.
“…
State is on track for economic growth in 2013
Employment gains are expected to be broad-based, with all industry sectors except information forecasted to add workers in 2013, according to data compiled by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. in its Monthly Economic Summary for December.
Colorado's economy is expected to perform among the top 10 states next year, said Richard Wobbekind, executive director of the CU Leeds School of Business Research Center. Unemployment will decrease to 8 percent in 2012 and 7.4 percent…
Hyder Construction completes Elk Camp restaurant
After two summer building seasons, Hyder Construction has completed the new Elk Camp restaurant in Aspen.
The restaurant, constructed for Aspen Skiing Co., opened in time for the resort’s 2012-2013 season. Elk Camp is design to capitalize on the views that can be seen from all three sides of the building, which sits at 9,970 feet above sea level.
CCY Architects of Basalt designed the contemporary structure, which features a vast area of windows, large timbers, metal siding…
Big-box properties ready for reinvention
Change is coming to the big box, and sooner than you might expect in Colorado, according to Jeff Sheppard, AIA, Roth Sheppard Architects.
Sheppard, a principal with Roth Sheppard, which was selected by Scandinavian Designs to strategically “reimagine” a number of the contemporary furniture company’s retail storefronts, sees the firm’s efforts as the tip of the iceberg in change coming to big-box properties.
“I think reimagining storefronts and big b…
Evergreen's Elk Bridge Center sells
An Evergreen-based investor acquired a local mixed-use property steeped in synergy.
Evergreen Investors LLC paid $2.95 million for Elk Bridge Center, a two-story, 20,633-square-foot office and retail property.
“It will be a nice investment for the group,” John Becker of Fuller Western Real Estate said of the buyer, noting its local sponsorship recognized the quality of the asset, which was built in 1999.
“Elk Bridge has a good tenant mix with a good synergy fo…
Seagate Properties grows portfolio with $18.1m buy
California-based Seagate Properties continues to expand its Colorado portfolio with its latest acquisition.
An entity formed by Seagate Colorado Partners paid $18.1 million, or $62,847 per unit, for Dove Tree, a 288-unit Colorado Springs community. Dove Tree represents the fourth Front Range multifamily property Seagate has acquired in Colorado in the past 18 months.
Read more in the Dec. 19 issue.
High-profile Presidio bldg. sells in value-add play
The Presidio office building, a Class A office building in northern Colorado Springs, traded for $7.28 million, or around $90 per square foot, to a California real estate investment trust.
Netreit Inc. out of Escondido, Calif., purchased the Presidio office building at 1155 Kelly Johnson Blvd., off Interstate 25, as part of a value-add play.
“The building is one of the most well known and recognizable buildings in suburban Colorado Springs,” said Cushman & Wakefi…
AGC Colorado projections for 2013
AGC Colorado expects conservative growth for the 2013 construction industry - Colorado's sixth-largest industry - related to job growth and economic impact, according to a recent forecast event presented by AGC/C and McGraw-Hill Construction.
The forecast included an overview of the national economy, historical trends and expected activity for 12 different market sectors for Colorado.
“We expect conservative overall economic growth in GDP of 2.7 percent for 2013, with 6 pe…
Turner Construction completes two-floor fit-out
Turner Construction recently completed a two-floor fit out for KMPG.
The scope of work for the project included complete interior demolition and new construction for all interior finishes and MEP systems.
The project is pursuing LEED Silver certification by the Green Building Certification Institute.
The 38,000-square-foot space, designed by Perkins + Will out of Chicago, is located in the 17th Street Plaza in downtown Denver, also built by Turner in 1983.
Mount Crested Butte landmark sells
A Mount Crested Butte landmark sold to a local buyer for nearly $3 million.
Nordic Inn LLC purchased The Nordic Inn, a 28-unit lodge at 14, 16, 18, 22 and 24 Treasury Road, where it is upgrading “virtually everything.”
“The new owners will be good stewards of the property,” commented Jerry Jones of Prudential Commercial Real Estate. “A lot of people were interested in the property but there was no one like the buyer; a local individual who knows the…
Housing task force submits recommendations
The Mayor’s Housing Task Force has submitted a series of recommendations designed to assist with the development of a new, comprehensive housing strategy for the City and County of Denver.
Mayor Michael Hancock convened a task force of community experts in February to analyze the city’s housing inventory and needs, review current policies, and make recommendations to address affordable and market rate housing.
Moving forward, the Denver Office of Economic Development…
Colin Powell headlines AIA 2013 Nat'l. Convention in Denver
General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.), former Secretary of State (2001 – 2005), joins Cameron Sinclair, co-founder and chief eternal optimist of Architecture for Humanity, and Blake Mycoskie, founder and chief shoe giver of TOMS, as keynote speakers for the AIA 2013 National Convention. The nation’s architects and design industry meet June 20-22 in Denver.
The AIA Convention is architecture’s largest annual gathering to keep current with innovative design sol…
Real Capital Solutions acquires Tanager Meadows apts.
Colorado Springs’ largest apartment community sold to a Colorado-based investment and property management company as part of its strategy to acquire value-add properties nationwide.
Real Capital Solutions paid $35.73 million, according to public records, for the Tanager Meadows Apartment Homes.
“The acquisition of Tanager Meadows is consistent with our strategy to acquire value-add properties nationwide. Real Capital Solutions has a very aggressive purchasing plan ov…
Construction spending rises for seventh-straight month
All major segments of construction spending increased in October, bringing total spending to a 37-month high at an annualized rate of $872 billion, according to an analysis of new federal data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials warned, however, that the “fiscal cliff” imperils future improvement in both public and private spending.
“Widespread gains in spending in October, along with hefty upward revisions to e…
Alliance Construction starts renovation of downtown bldg.
Alliance Construction Solutions has started renovation of the Colorado National Bank building.
Alliance Design/Build Solutions is serving as the design-builder and Alliance Construction Solutions is the general contractor for the project that will convert the historic bank building at 918 17th St. in downtown Denver into a Renaissance Hotel by Marriott.
“We are excited for the opportunity to renovate such a remarkably historic building,” said Alliance Construction So…
Brinkman completes latest building on Taxi campus
Construction has wrapped up on Zeppelin Development Inc.’s latest building at the Taxi development in the River North area of Denver.
Brinkman Construction completed construction on the sixth building at the 172,700-square-foot campus, an $8 million, 40,000-sf space with a modern design.
Drive, which officially opened Nov. 1, was designed by Stephen Dynia Architects, with the architect of record Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture for the office building. Read more in the De…
Lakewood recognized for green practices
The city of Lakewood recently was recognized for its use of green building practices on the 11th Avenue Head Start facility at 6201 W. 11th Ave. in Lakewood.
The facility, which opened in fall 2011, achieved LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, making it the first city-built facility to achieve the recognition.
"If we can save money on utilities, we have more for other program expenses – materials, supplies, field trips, the fun th…
Brown Palace selects BRS for facade restoration
Building Restoration Specialties Inc. recently was selected to complete repairs on Denver’s historic Brown Palace Hotel.
The repair project, slated to last for three years, will be conducted without interrupting business at the Brown Palace, which has been open every day since it opened Aug. 12, 1892.
BRS will be repairing stone on the exterior façade, replacing all stone window sills and modifying existing flashings where needed. The firm also will begin carving st…
Purchase, sale agreement approved by commissioners
A development group has made an offer to buy the New York Building in Lakewood for possible use by the Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design.
The Board of County Commissioners approved a purchase and sale agreement Oct. 23 with the Colorado Investment and Development Co. for the 31,000-square-foot historic building at 1651 Kendall St., which currently houses Jefferson County’s community corrections program.
The agreement, which isn’t final, indicates the company…
MSU announces plans for $12 million athletic complex
Metropolitan State University of Denver recently announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art athletic complex, which will include baseball, softball and soccer fields, and eight tennis courts.
“The complex will provide a new home for Roadrunner athletic events as well as academic programs,” said MSU President Stephen Jordan. “This will continue the physical transformation under way on our campus and is the kind of facility that our students and student-athle…
Changing design trends for retail, medical office
The big box isn’t dead, chef-driven restaurants are growing and the delivery of medical services is moving to a new arena.
Three trends in the ever-changing world of design and just a few of the topics discussed during the Design Trends for Retail/Restaurant, Hospitality and Medical Office Buildings panel at the Colorado Real Estate Journal’s recent 2012 Commercial Interior Architecture & Design Conference held Nov. 7 at the Inverness Hotel & Conference Center…
FCI Constructors begins pair of Colo. projects
FCI Constructors Inc. recently started a pair of projects, including the conversion of the former Frederick High School into a prekindergarten through eighth-grade facility for the St. Vrain Valley School District.
The $8.5 million project includes two major additions as well as upgrading classrooms, art room, music room, gym, safety, doors, technology, lighting, storage, sound control and air quality. Work is anticipated to be complete in April.
The firm also recently started w…
City of Lafayette named conservation leader
The city of Lafayette has been named Community Conservation Leader of the year by the Center for ReSource Conservation.
The award is presented to an individual or organization demonstrating outstanding leadership and creative vision toward a more sustainable future for the community and embodies the principles of conservation and environmental protection.
The city was recognized for its efforts, which included reducing waste at city and community events; increasing recycling and…
National Western Stock Show commits to stay in Denver
National Western Stock Show leaders, joined by Mayor Michael B. Hancock and other city officials, announced today they are committed to keeping the Stock Show in Denver.“Denver has been the Stock Show’s beloved home for 106 years, and our complex is a time-honored destination for visitors worldwide,” said Paul Andrews, the National Western’s President and CEO. “We want to enrich and educate the lives of millions for another century, and we believe our…
Multiphase project to boost sustainability of CU-Boulder
A campuswide effort is under way in Boulder to help reinforce the University of Colorado’s reputation as a leader in sustainability and an innovator in efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The multiphased project, anticipated to be fully operational by winter 2014, comprises three main elements: construction of a new heating and cooling plant that will be known as the East District Energy Plant and will serve as a showcase for energy-efficient concepts; renovation of the exi…
Slow, bumpy recovery for Springs apartment market
Colorado Springs’ apartment market is headed in the right direction, albeit at a “fairly” slow and uneven pace over the last year, according to a recent report.
Apartment Insights’ Statistics/Trends report noted that the Colorado Springs apartment market has experienced two soft quarters followed by two strong quarters.
The citywide vacancy rate at then end of the third quarter decreased by 62 basis points to 5.76 percent. Even after a 124 basis-point dro…
Building fire at The Streets at SouthGlenn
Alberta Development Partners LLC released the following information regarding today's fire at The Streets at SouthGlenn in Centennial:
During demolition of a vacant portion of the Block 1 building at The Streets at Southglenn, a fire started in an exterior wall cavity. No property damage occurred beyond the demolition area, and no reported injuries have occurred, other than smoke inhalation by one worker, who did not require hospitalization. The contractor had…
Hitachi Data selects Douglas County for R&D hub
Hitachi Data Systems recently announced that the firm is making a “major” new investment in metro Denver. HDS is locating a new technology center in the Meridian Corporate Center in Douglas County.
The 53,000-square-foot research-and-development facility is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in the area over the next five years.
Construction on the new facility started in October with employees slated to move into the new facility in spring. HDS staff in downtow…
Character defines GH Phipps projects at USAFA
Character is the defining vision for a pair of projects GH Phipps Construction Cos. has been awarded.
GH Phipps broke ground Oct. 19 on the United States Air Force Academy’s Center for Character and Leadership Development, designed to embody the academy’s vision for developing leaders of character.
In late October, the firm also began the ninth phase of renovations at Vandenberg Hall, one of the largest student facilities in the United States and one of the original …
Saunders Construction building apt., Whole Foods projects
Saunders Construction Inc. is the contractor for a pair of metro Denver projects, including One City Block.
The contractor will build the four-building residential project at 19th Avenue and Logan Street in Uptown. The project is slated to achieve LEED Silver certification. RedPeak Properties is developing One City Block, which is designed by Davis Partnership.
The firm also is the contractor for a new 36,000-square-foot Whole Foods on Wadsworth Boulevard in Littleton. CSHQA is …
Fierce competition in sale of grocery-anchored center
The competition was fierce for an asset type that doesn’t often fall into foreclosure.
Multiple buyers bid on Conifer Town Center, a 107,451-square-foot, six-building, Safeway-anchored shopping center in Conifer that ultimately sold to a Dallas-based buyer for $13.13 million, according to CoStar.
T Conifer Retail LLC, an affiliate of Dallas-based Tabani Group Inc., purchased the Safeway-anchored center at 27102-27182 Main St.
Construction under way on new Thornton project
Thornton Development LLC and the city of Thornton celebrated breaking ground on The Grove, a new retail development in Thornton that will be home to a new Cabela’s. The 90,000-square-foot Cabela’s store will serve as an anchor for the development at the southeast corner of 144th Avenue and Interstate 25 in Thornton’s North Washington corridor.
“We are excited about the future jobs and development that will grow on this site. This is a great day for th…
Hyder Construction awarded Merrick & Co. TI
Hyder Construction was awarded the tenant improvement project for Merrick & Co.’s new corporate headquarters in Greenwood Village.
The $3.5 million, 103,000-square-foot project encompasses three floors of all new finishes, including carpet, flooring and ceiling, new lighting, retrofitted mechanical and electrical systems, and a controlled access area with a dedicated mechanical system, cooling system and access floor.
Shaw Construction starts work on Aspen campus
Shaw Construction recently started work on the $23 million Castle Creek campus.
The work, which is slated for completion in September, for owner AMFS/ACDS comprises the redevelopment of the 22-acres Castle Creek campus in Aspen. The redevelopment is a joint initiative of the Aspen Music Festival and School and Aspen Country Day School to provide facility for the both the renowned music festival and the independent, prekindergarten through eighth-grade school. Read more in the upc…
Williams named economic development manager
Walter Williams was recently named Commerce City’s new economic development manager.
Williams brings 18 years of experience in executive-level leadership, economic development, redevelopment and real estate finance to the position and will report to newly appointed Deputy City Manager James Hayes. Read more in the upcoming Nov. 7 issue of the Colorado Real EState Journal.
Foothills Commercial to remodel corporate campus
A Denver office property is getting a new look, thanks to Foothills Commercial Builders.
The firm is renovating and remodeling 155 S. Madison St. for client Ogilvie Properties. Work includes the renovation and remodel of an existing three-story, 2,200-square-foot lobby, including a 700-sf conference room addition.
Retailers bring new- to-market stores to Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek Shopping Center in Denver is adding a multitude of new retailers, including many that are new to the Denver market.
True Religion Brand Jeans, Buckle, Madewell, Omega and Fresh-Healthy Café all will open by the end of the year at the center, which recently welcomed H&M, an expanded 19,900-square-foot Forever 21 and the region’s first Athleta. Read more in the Oct. 17 issue.
Adolfson & Peterson completes Marquez Hall
Adolfson & Peterson recently completed a cutting-edge building for the School of Mines.
Nearly 1 ½ years after construction began, Marquez Hall celebrated its grand opening. The 64,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility, which has the capacity for up to 400 students, was made possible by more than $27 million in donations from alumni and others.
Bohlin Cywinski Jackson in partnership with Anderson Mason Dale designed Marquez Hall. Read more in the Oct. 17 issue of…
Denver South EDP completes in-depth look at jobs
The Denver South Economic Development Partnership recently released a new analysis of industry and jobs data in the Denver south region.
Contracting with Development Research Partners, Denver South EDP completed an in-depth look at the region’s jobs, industries and growth opportunities to better promote the region as a business location and to showcase the area’s strengths.
“We undertook this project with the goal of identifying and analyzing the number of jobs…
Springs apartment sale sets record mark
A lakeside apartment community in Colorado Springs achieved the highest price per unit ever paid for a 1970s garden-style asset in the city.
Colorado Springs-based Griffis/Blessing paid $16.5 million, or $105,769 per unit, for the 156-unit Bonterra Lakeside apartment community at 890 Quail Lake Circle.
“We had strong interest from a number of buyers. This demand along with the unique nature of the property helped achieve the highest price per unit ever paid for a property …
Swinerton celebrates 70 years with initiative
To commemorate its 70 years in Colorado, Swinerton Builders launched Discovery Builders, a six-week educational program designed to expand awareness about the career opportunities available in the fields of construction, architecture and engineering.
During the program, students at The Academy, a charter school in Adams 12 Five Star Schools, gained insight about a new aspect of the industry from Swinerton employees and experts, as well as learned how to design and build a structu…
Grand Junction to use new media to promote Mesa County
The Grand Junction Economic Partnership is taking a new tack to advertising the Grand Valley.
GJEP compiled footage received from its Outdoor Video Contest into a showcase video filled with activities taking place in the Grand Valley. Local band Exit 42 granted use of its original song, Colorado Home, to be the music background to the film. Read more in the Oct. 3 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Breckenridge looks to a variety of green initiatives
Things are looking green in Breckenridge.
And it’s only getting greener.
The town has a number of green initiatives under way and another in the works, all designed to improve the mountain town’s sustainability.
Half a year after its completion, a seven-site solar array distributed throughout Breckenridge is performing at an average of 10 percent above expectations since their commissioning in January, while the SustainablBreck Business Program has been eagerly embr…
Englewood City Council adopts economic development policy
At its Sept. 4 meeting, Englewood City Council adopted an Economic Development Incentive Policy.
The policy is aimed at attracting of businesses and development-related projects that diversify the local economy, and enhance the quality of life and the fiscal condition of the city. The goals of the policy include creating a tool to assist economic development efforts; fostering diversification of the economic base; to expand the retail sales tax base; to assist in attracting desir…
SlaterPaull to design new Aims Community College facility
SlaterPaull Architects is taking inspiration from Aims Community College’s existing building in designing the addition that will double the Fort Lupton campus.
The architecture firm was selected by Aims Community College to design the new $8 million facility, which is dedicated to energy technologies and agriculture programs at the Fort Lupton location.
“We were inspired from the building already on campus,” said Jennifer Cordes, principal, with SlaterPaull. &l…
Cherry Creek North BID receives merit award
During its most recent annual conference in Minneapolis, the International Downtown Association recognized the Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District with a 2012 Downtown Merit Award for its role on the recently completed City and County of Denver Cherry Creek Area Plan. The BID was one of the plan stakeholders and on the plan leadership team. Additionally, Denver Community Planning and Development as well as Public Works were responsible for project management, staffing…
Pueblo selection a first for Austrian-based manufacturer
One of the world’s leading chain manufacturers is linking up with Pueblo.
Austrian-based pewag, in conjunction with the Pueblo Economic Development Corp., recently announced that it will open its first North American manufacturing center next year in the Minnequa Industrial Park in the south end of the city.
A ceremonial groundbreaking recently was held for the 55,000-square-foot facility, for which construction will begin in January. Read more in the Oct. 3 issue o…
Pinkard begins Mercantile Bldg. work
Pinkard Construction is under way on the renovation of Mercantile Building in Lower Downtown Denver.
Pinkard will perform core and shell renovations to the six-story mixed-use building, whose tenants include the Tattered Cover, as well as the four-story office building immediately adjacent to the west. Read more in the Oct. 3 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Construction starts on Aspen Art Museum
Aspen’s new art museum is taking shape.
Construction started this month on the new 30,000-square-foot Aspen Art Museum, which will replace a 9,000-sf converted historic hydroelectric plant outside the center of town the museum has occupied for the last 30 years.
Turner Construction Co., in conjunction with Summit Construction, are building the new museum located at the corner of East Hyman Avenue and South Spring Street in downtown Aspen, which will features 12,500 sf of e…
ICSC awards Aspen Grove for community efforts
The International Council of Shopping Centers Foundation recently awarded Aspen Grove its western region winner of the 2012 U.S. Community Support Award.
The center was recognized at ICSC’s NOI+ Conference Sept. 5. ICSC presented one overall and four regional awards at the conference.
Aspen Grove in Littleton was recognized for its “Queen for a Day” campaign. Aspen Grove teamed up with Bessie’s Hope for the monthly program, which honors a nursing home eld…
CSNA recognized for Bal Seal facility
CSNA and Bal Seal Engineering recently received a citation for design excellence from the American Institute of Architects Colorado South Chapter for Bal Seal Engineering’s yet-to-be-built facility in Colorado Springs.
AIA Colorado South named the project its Citation Award winner in the “unbuilt architecture” category. CSNA and Bal Seal are planning the 155,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at 1350 Belpratt View.
The design was selected from 12 entries an…
USPS building for sale in Glenwood Springs
The only high-quality manufacturing grade building in the Roaring Fork Valley is on the market.
The United States Postal Service’s former mail distribution center at 195 Center Drive, at the northwest corner of Storm King Road and Center Drive, in Glenwood Springs is for sale for $2.19 million - a price that is less than half of replacement cost, noted Craig Rathbun, CCIM, president/managing partner of The Fleisher Co. Read more in the Sept. 19 issue of the Colorado Real Es…
Metro Denver job market seen nationally as bright spot
Metro Denver’s job market continues to show strength and is recognized as a bright spot in national employment growth, according to data compiled by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. in its Monthly Economic Summary for September.
A recent analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows the Denver-Aurora-Broomfield MSA ranked third among the largest metro area in nonagricultural job growth from July 2011 to July 2012, posting a 3 percent gain.
“Key hi…
Peak Capital pays $12.2m for latest addition to portfolio
Peak Capital Partners is making plans for improvements at its latest addition to its portfolio.
And Peak Capital’s not done. The Utah-based firm is looking to add two to three more Front Range properties to its holdings this year.
Peak Capital Partners recently paid $12.2 million, according to public records, for Summer Grove. The 374-unit apartment community at 3915 Harmony Drive in Colorado Springs represents the fifth multifamily property acquired by Peak Capital in the…
Aurora waiving SIR rezoning fees through end of 2013
The city of Aurora's new Sustainable Infill and Redevelopment (SIR) Zoning District recently established allows for creative approaches to sustainable development and redevelopment within high-profile, targeted areas of the city, ultimately resulting in business growth and expanded living choices.To jumpstart the program, the city has decided to waive SIR rezoning fees through the end of 2013 within the strategic areas identified as SIR target areas in the city's Comprehensive Pla…
Pinkard Construction to complete TI project
Pinkard Construction recently was awarded the Sloan’s Lake Care and Rehab tenant improvement project.
Owner Ensign Facility Services selected Pinkard to improve the existing, occupied six-story extended care facility at 1601 Lowell Blvd.
Work includes improvements to the 6,800-square-foot ground floor, including a kitchen, physical therapy, lounge and office areas. Read more in the Sept. 19 issue.
Intergroup completes UE facility
Intergroup Architects recently completed the 95,200-square-foot UE Compression facility in Commerce City.
UE Compression specializes in the fabrication and packaging of custom engineered gas compressor systems. The facility is located at 6471 E. 49th Ave. Read more in the Sept. 19 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Rustic Hills Shopping Center sells in value-add play
A Texas-based buyer acquired the Rustic Hills Shopping Center in a value-add play.
SpringsBon LLC paid an undisclosed amount for the retail center situated in eastern Colorado Springs at the southeast corner of North Academy and Palmer Park boulevards. The four-building center comprises 234,015 square feet on a 17.28-acre site.
Read more in the Sept. 5 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Chotin, i2 start full-scale renovation
Chotin Properties LLC has started a full-scale renovation of its Denver Tech Center building.
Work at the building at 5675 DTC Blvd. in Greenwood Village includes all new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems consistent with Class A properties.
The general contractor for the project is i2 Construction LLC while Burkett Design Inc. is responsible for core-and-shell building redevelopment and architectural design. Catalyst Planning group has been engaged to act as the owner&…
Work starts on renovating building into dual-brand hotel
Alliance Construction Solutions has started work on the first project of its kind in Colorado.
The firm has begun renovations transforming the former Xcel Energy building into the state’s first dual-brand hotel. Homewood Suites by Hilton and Hampton Inn and Suites will be housed in the 12-story building at 550 15th St. in downtown Denver and share more than 262,000 square feet of space.
“We are excited to be part of such a new concept in hotel design,” said Jer…
Mayor, DIA celebrate milestone for terminal redevelopment
Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock and Denver International Airport commemorated a significant construction milestone of the South Terminal Redevelopment Program. Elected officials, travel and aviation industry members and employees impacted by the program all gathered to witness the ceremonial release and transfer of the Jeppesen Terminal roof tension cables to temporary structures that will support the tents for the duration of construction.
“We are building Denver’s…
Design Concepts to work on nine school projects
Design Concepts was selected to be the landscape architect and planning partner for nine school projects funded by the Colorado Department of Education’s BEST Program for capital school construction.
The Building Excellent Schools Today Program is a competitive grant program available to public school districts and other educational institutions in Colorado. Administered by CDE’s Division of Public School Capital Construction Assistance, the BEST Program aims to allev…
FRA opens new accelerator facility
Fitzsimons Redevelopment Authority officially opened its new $8 million, 37,000-square-foot Accelerator Building today, adjacent to its original Incubator Building at the Bioscience Park Center in the Fitzsimons Life Science District.
The FRA's original Incubator Building opened in 2000 and now houses 35 companies in different stages of development. The expansion will enable companies to move into larger, long-term space. The new space includes:
* Built-to-sui…
Shaw breaks ground at Centennial InterPort
Shaw Construction recently broke ground for what will become the fifth and sixth facilities at Centennial InterPort.
Once completed, owner The SunBorne Cos. and tenant, Sierra Nevada Corp., will have two 24,000-square-foot hangars, a 7,500-sf office, an 8,500-sf office, parking lots at each new facility and an 80 space parking overflow lot. Also, the newly laid ramps and aprons will attach to the currentCentennial Airport runways.
Aurora Housing Authority finishes first phase
The Village at Westerly Creek is scheduled to welcome its first residents on August 28.
The new three-story apartment building for seniors/disabled, located at East Kentucky Avenue and South Jamaica Street, has been in construction since September 2011.
The $15.4 million development is developed, owned, and managed by the Aurora Housing Authority. The Village at Westerly Creek is the first of two buildings to replace the obsolescent public housing development known a…
Construction launches on Evans Station Lofts
The Urban Land Conservancy and Medici Communities LLC celebrated the construction launch of workforce housing located at the Evans Light Rail Station in south Denver. This development will bring 50 new affordable rentals to the Denver market and represents the first Transit-Oriented Development Fund project currently under construction.
In June 2011, ULC purchased the property at 2140 S. Delaware Street for $1.2 million using the TOD Fund, a fund created to preserv…
Rebound yet to take root in Springs office market
The forecasted rebound in Colorado Springs’ office market has yet to materialize and has diluted some of the “bold enthusiasm” experienced in the first quarter, according to Cushman & Wakefield|Colorado Springs Commercial’s report on the city’s office sector.“The velocity of investor and tenant interest in Colorado Springs to start the year initially led us to believe that 2012 was going to be the tipping-point year to quickly rebound this m…
Front Range apartment portfolio sells for $90m
A four-property apartment portfolio recently sold in the largest multifamily portfolio to sell to a single investor in Colorado since 2006.
The Texas-based investment group, identified through public records as Archon Group, paid $90 million for the 1,164-unit value-add portfolio stretching from Aurora to Colorado Springs.
Read more in the Aug. 15 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Colorado Brownfields assists regional tourism coalition
The Colorado Brownfields Foundation recently completed the first phase of technical assistance being provided to a coalition of Colorado communities undertaking a heritage tourism strategic planning effort.
CBF conducted a tour of cultural and heritage sites across south central Colorado; such as the towns of Canon City, Florence, Pueblo, and Trinidad that connect multiple scenic byways and are gateways to numerous mountain ranges and recreation opportunities. CBF met with local …
Metro West Housing Solutions recognized
Nonprofit Metro West Housing Solutions received a 2012 MetLife Foundation Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing for its work at the Residences at Creekside in Lakewood. Presented by Enterprise Community Partners and MetLife Foundation, the award honors outstanding leadership, green design, innovation and effective service provision in affordable senior housing.
Metro West Housing Solutions received $50,000 and will be honored at the LeadingAge conference in Denver in October…
Denver housing, commercial markets point to stabilization
Employment gains, decreasing vacancy rates in commercial real estate and strengthening housing trends are all optimistic indicators of the region's continued economic stabilization, according to data compiled by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation in its Monthly Economic Summary for August 2012.
According to the report, Metro Denver's residential real estate market is improving, with higher builder confidence, new residential construction and a growing num…
Work starts on 'distinctive' Steamboat Springs community
A distinctive senior housing and health care facility is under way in Steamboat Springs and designed to be a model for development for all future resort and isolated communities around the country.
Construction recently started on Casey’s Pond Senior Community, a 117,487-square-foot facility comprising 144 units of three progressive levels of care.
“We believe this will be the model for future resort and isolated communities senior housing design around the country,&…
Briargate building sells to growing firm
A Colorado Springs-based software and hardware design engineering company acquired a single-story flex building in Briargate that will accommodate its “significant” growth. Colorado Engineering, under the name Law Land Company LLC, paid $2.33 million for the 38,962-square-foot building at 1915 Jamboree Drive in Colorado Springs.
“Our company has steadily grown since we were founded in 2003 and the acquisition is a culmination of our efforts,” said Nancy E.…
City 'excited' for ground-up retail development
Construction has started on Promenade at Denver West, a 63,000-square-foot retail development at West Colfax Avenue and Indiana Street in Lakewood.
Alberta Development Partners LLC is developing the 11.75-acre site, once home to Stevinson Chevrolet.
"The city of Lakewood is excied to see the southeast corner of West Colfax and Indiana Street redevelopment with a high-quality retail project. This highly visible corner serves an an entrance into the city, Coorado Mills and D…
ACG report details declining construction employment
Construction employment declined in 162 out of 337 metropolitan areas between June 2011 and June 2012, increased in 127 and stayed stagnant in 48, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said that construction employment declined or remained unchanged in most metro areas as the public sector continued to cut back on investments in new construction and infrastructure and economic g…
Prime West, Intergroup, DSP partner on reuse project
A unique reuse of a former industrial building is about to take shape.
Prime West Development is slated to begin redevelopment this month of the former Gump Glass building at 1265 S. Broadway St. in Denver into a health and day care center for aging adults.
The project represents the third Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly that Prime West is completing for InnovAge Greater Colorado, formerly Total Longterm Care, in Colorado. Read more in the Aug. 1 issue of the Colo…
Shaw tops out senior housing project
Shaw Construction LLC recently topped out the Shoshone Senior Residences in Denver’s Sunnyside neighborhood.
The Burgwyn Co. and Newsed are development the two-story, 34-unit building, which will offer affordable housing for seniors. OZ Architecture designed the building, part of the Chaffee Park Senior Residence Community.
“Thanks to a good design and partnering with a repeat project team, Shoshone has been a smooth-sailing project that’s set to finish on time…
Colorado Springs apartment vacancy rates down, rents up
The average rent in the Colorado Springs metro area rose year over year for the tenth quarter in a row, climbing 2.3 percent during the second quarter to $776. According to a report released today by the Colorado Division of Housing and the Apartment Association of Southern Colorado, the average rent for the region was up from $759 reported during the second quarter of last year, and was also up from 2012’s first-quarter average rent of $754.
The average rent increas…
RTD approves Kiewit proposal for I-225 line
The Regional Transportation District Board of Directors formally approved a proposal by Kiewit Infrastructure Co. to complete the I-225 light-rail line to Peoria by Noevember 2013. The line would open in mid-2016 after about six months of testing.
With a vote of 14-0 and one member absent, the RTD Board's decision paves the way for the agency to complete another FasTracks rail line.
“The completion of the I-225 line will offer economic growth and employment opp…
Work starts on Moby Arena renovation
Pinkard Construction Co. recently started the $3.3 million renovation/addition to Moby Arena on the campus of Colorado State University in Fort Collins.
The project, slated for completion in December, involves 6,800 square feet of additions to both the north and south concourses. The additions comprise a new ticketing area on the north concourse and a banquet room with a commercial kitchen on the south. Also included in the scope of work are additional restrooms, renovations to t…
AIA Colorado opens new space
It’s a new space for the American Institute of Architects Colorado Component that will serve the organization for the next decade – and completed at a fraction of typical interior finish costs.
“It was an unheard of budget of $42 per square foot,” said Scott Lindenau, FAIA, design principal of Studio B Architects. “Usually, the budget is three times that but we were able to do a lot for a little.”
Aspen-based Studio B Architects and Denver-bas…
Waldo Canyon fire to impact Colo. Springs apartment market
In the coming quarter, the effects of the Waldo Canyon fire on Colorado Springs’ apartment market will be evident, according to a recent report on the city’s multifamily sector.
Apartments will see a period of increased renting from both those who lost homes and those who arrive to help with the recovery effort and rebuilding, noted Doug Carter of Sperry Van Ness/Doug Carter LLC, co-author of Apartment Insights’ Statistics/Trends report on the Springs multifamil…
Walsenburg motel sells to out-of-state buyer
An out-of-state buyer picked up a Walsenburg motel at a price of $5,405 per room.
North Carolina-based 125 Walsenburg LLC paid $200,000 for the former Knights Inn, a 37-room motel at 22808 U.S. Highway 160.
The buyer is expected to either keep the motel a Knights Inn or rebrand it, and make some improvement, noted Candace Seaton of Grubb & Ellis|Quantum Commercial Group, who listed the property. Read more in the July 18 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Shoe Dept. Encore opens at Town Center at Aurora
Shoe Dept. Encore has opened its 26,000-square-foot store at the Town Center at Aurora.
The store, which carries brands such as Timberland, Hush Puppies, Life Stride, K Swiss, Reebok, Nike, Keds, New Balance and adidas, recently opened at the retail center at 14200 E. Alameda Ave. in Aurora. Read more in the July 18 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Brownsfield grant funded for cleanup of abandoned mine site
The Colorado Brownfields Foundation recently provided a grant to assist Hinsdale County in the management and cleanup necessary to restore a heritage tourism site.
The grant will assist in the cleanup of the Ute Ulay Townsite, an abandoned mine site, located along Henson Creek, just outside of Lake City. The townsite comprises about six structures that are succumbing to weather and vandalism. The current owner wants to donate it to the community, however, a cleanup is neces…
Charter named first CHPS-certified green school in state
Alta Vista Charter School recently was named the first Collaborative for High Performance Schools-certified green school in Colorado.
The K-6 charter school in Lamar was certified by CHPS, a national organization dedicated to optimizing K-12 learning environments and improving student performance and the entire educational experience.
SlaterPaull Architects designed the school, which was constructed by JHL Constructors. The project includes a 23,000-square-foot building addition…
Berglund appointed president, CEO of Upstate Colorado
Eric Berglund was promoted to president and CEO of Upstate Colorado Economic Develoment. Berglund has served as the acting president and CEO of the group, founded in 1987 as a public-private nonprofit economic develoment corporation athat provides services to all of Weld County, since October. Read more in the July 4-July 17 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
RTD staff recommends Kiewit for I-225 light-rail line
The Regional Transportation District staff recommended to the RTD Board of Directors to move forward with a proposal from Kiewit Infrastructure Co. to complete the I-225 Light Rail Line all the way to Peoria. The proposal also commits to completing construction of the line by November 2015, around the same general timeframe as completion of the East Rail Line. The Kiewit team also includes Mass. Electric Construction Co., AECOM, and RBC Capital Markets.Highlights of the Kiewit pro…
W.W. Reynolds retrofits nearly 1 million square feet
Nearly one million square feet in Boulder is a little greener these days. The W.W. Reynolds Cos. has retrofit almost one million sf of its commercial properties over the past 18 months throughout Boulder County through EnergySmart and Xcel Energy commercial rebates. Read more in the July 4-July 17 issue.
Hospice opens doors to new HQ
Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care recently opened the doors on its new headquarters facility, which marks the first time in the organization's 32-year history it has owned its headquarters facility. Read more in the July 4-July 17 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
King Soopers opens Marketplace in Commerce City
More than 500 customers were waiting in line for the opening of the new King Soopers Marketplace in Commerce City this week. The 120,000-square-foot King Soopers Marketplace is designed to offer one-stop shopping for its customers. Located at 15051 E. 104th Ave., the store concept is the fourth of its kind statewide.
“Commerce City has seen its population double in the last 10 years and more rooftops meant more expectations for services and retail,” said Co…
RTD breaks ground on Northwest Rail Line
The Regional Transportation District has broken ground on the first segment of the FasTracks Northwest Rail Line. With approval this month of an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) between RTD and the city of Westminster for a new station design near 71st Avenue and Lowell Boulevard. The 6.2-mile segment runs from Denver Union Station to south Westminster (71st Avenue and Lowell Boulevard).
Re/Max building achieves LEED Gold rating
Re/Max's 14-story Denver headquarters building recently achieved the LEED Gold certification for existing buildings. The office building is one of 62 Colorado facilities certified under the Existing Building rating system and 322 total LEED projects in the state. Read more in an upcoming issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Yard House on tap to open July 1
The Yard House Restaurant is on tap to open its doors July 1 in The Vistas at Park Meadows. Read more about the opening and other openings and events at Colorado retail centers in the Shopping Center News section of the July 18th issue.
Colfax coalition receives nearly $1m brownfields grant
The Colfax Mainstreet Coalition, a partnership among the city of Denver, the city of Lakewood and the Denver Urban Renewal Authority, recently announced it received a $900,000 brownfields grant. The Environmental Protection Agency provided the funding that will be used to study the Colfax Avenue corridor to foster redevelopment of the street. Read more in the July 4 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Final piece to West rail line under way
RTD has broken ground on the final structure on the West Rail Line that will serve Denver, Lakewood, Golden and Jefferson County. The groundbreaking on the five-story, 800-space parking garage at Sheridan Boulevard and 10th Avenue puts RTD one step closer to opening the 12.1-mile line in April - eight months ahead of schedule.The structure was designed by Gensler and is being built by Swinerton Builders Colorado.
Alliance Construction completes Gateway hotel
Alliance Construction Solutions has completed the $6 million TownePlace Suites by Marriott Hotel in the Gateway Business Park near Pena Boulevard in Denver. Read more in the July 4 issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Pinkard pops the top on Coors expansion project
The pop's been topped on Pinkard Construction Co's latest expansion project, an approximately 40,000-square-foot addition for Coors Distributing Co.
The tilt-up concrete and structural steel expansion was completed at the brewer's existing 210,000-sf facility in northwest Denver. Read more in the upcoming July 4 issue of the CREJ.
Springs apartment property trades hands
A California-based buyer added to its Colorado Springs portfolio with the acquisition of the Fireside Apartments.
WIP-Fireside LLC paid $3.95 million, or $36,574 per unit, for the 108-unit apartment building at 610 N. Murray Blvd.
The community, which traded at a 10.3 percent cap rate, is situated directly across from a new Wal-Mart, a location that factored into the acquisition, noted Kevin Higgins of the Unique Apartment Group of Unique Properties LLC-TCN Worldwide, who handle…
Construction starts on Loveland senior project
Construction manager/general contractor Pinkard Construction Co., with Aller Lingle Massey Architects, recently broke ground on an $8.9 million independent living facility for the Housing Authority of the City of Loveland.
The Mirasol Phase II Apartment Building project is a 60-unit, three-story building part of the 25-acre Mirasol Senior Community campus which already comprises a 49-unit apartment building, 36 single-family and paired homes for seniors and a 5,600-square-foot ev…
Work nears completion on mental health facility
The Mental Health Center of Denver is wrapping up renovations to its new flagship adult services clinic.
General contractor and construction manager Taylor Kohrs is leading the redevelopment of the 110,000-square-foot (including basement) building at 4455 E. 12th Ave. in Denver, which will consolidate several smaller clinics in the surrounding community into the property, formerly owned by University of Colorado Health Sciences. Read more in the June 20-July 3 issue.
Avon mixed-use property scooped up by investment group
Local investment group Avon Mountain Center LLC paid $9.8 million for a mixed-use property in the heart of the Vail Valley.
Avon Mountain Center LLC purchased the Mountain Center of Avon, an 80,000-square-foot office/flex/self-storage building at 910 Nottingham Road in Avon in a cash-flow play, according to transaction broker Mike Pearson of NAI Mountain Commercial. Read more in the current issue of the Colorado Real Estate Journal.
Bal Seal breaks ground on $45m facility
Bal Seal has broken ground on its $45 million, 155,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Colorado Springs.
The U.S. provider of custom-engineered, high-perfromance electical contracts and seals, is building its facility on approximately 17 acres at the southwest corner of Voyager Parkway and Republic Drive in the InterQuest buisiness park. The new facility represents an expansion and relocation for Bal Seal Engineering Inc. in the Colorado Springs market.
Bryan C…
BRS celebrates opening in Brighton
The Eagle View Adult Center - a facility 10 years in the making - recently held its grand opening.
Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture was hired by the city of Brighton in 2003 to complete a feasibility study assessing the needs of Brighton residents, creating a development/operational plan and designing the concept for a new senior center. See the June 20 issue of the CREJ for more details.
Saunders Construction breaks ground on hospital
Saunders Construction Inc. recently broke ground on the new Children’s Hospital South Campus in Highlands Ranch.
The firm, the project’s construction manager and general contractor, was joined in kicking off the construction of the 175,000-square-foot facility with the architectural team of Davis Partnership and FKP Architects, owner’s representative Balfour Concord as well as Shea Properties and PrimeWest. See more in the June 20 issue of the CREJ.
Oakwood acquires Banning Lewis Ranch
Oakwood Homes, in conjunction with Mountain Real Estate Funding Corp., acquired the 2,600-acre Banning Lewis Ranch in northern Colorado Springs.
The master-planned community was sold by a syndicate of former lenders, who took ownership last year. The property has “significant” infrastructure improvements in place and 251 permit-ready finished single-family lots, 88 paired-home lots and a development-ready pad for multifamily product.
Oakwood Homes, one of five b…
Broadmoor preps for $60 million renovation
The Broadmoor is readying for a $60 million, multiphased renovation over the next two years designed to elevate the overall guest experience.
Work includes the expansion and redesign of guestrooms and suites and extensive updates to food and beverage outlets and meetings, events and activity facilities.
The initial phase of renovations was completed recently and included the re-opening of the Southlake building guestrooms and suites and a new look for the 6,300-square-foot Cheye…
Trimble breaks ground on Westminster campus
JE Dunn was named general contractor for Trimble’s Westminster project.
Trimble recently held a ceremonial groundbreaking for construction of the 125,000-square-foot, four-story campus.
The building represents the firm’s, which specializes in applying technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government more productive, new Rockies campus. See the June 6 issue of CREJ for more details.
Denver Animal Shelter earns LEED certification
The Denver Animal Shelter recently achieved Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification.
The designation makes DAS the first and only animal facility in the country to achieve Platinum LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The shelter was completed in June 2011.
“This is an amazing accomplishment that shows not only our commitment to sustainability but also to the health and welfare of the animals at the shelter,” D…