Denver Announces Historic Acquisition of Park Hill Golf Course for Public Use
In a landmark agreement, Denver’s Park Hill Golf Course is set to transform from private land into a public park, marking the largest acquisition of its kind in city history. City officials revealed the news at a press conference held on January 15, 2025, where Mayor Mike Johnston announced a land swap with developer Andy Klein. The city will exchange the now-defunct golf course for a 145-acre parcel of land adjacent to Denver International Airport.
"This acquisition aligns with our vision to provide access to public parks in every community," said Mayor Johnston, emphasizing the city’s commitment to ensuring all residents can enjoy public recreational spaces. The deal involves an internal land transfer approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, allocating approximately $12.7 million from the Parks Legacy Fund.
The park, expected to open this summer, will feature walking trails, picnic areas, and other amenities developed in collaboration with the community. Johnston acknowledged concerns regarding potential gentrification and emphasized the importance of keeping the neighborhood affordable, ensuring that residents are not displaced by the park’s development.
Former Mayor Wellington Webb, a longtime advocate for open spaces, echoed these sentiments, stating the need for responsible development that uplifts existing residents. "We can’t replicate this site anywhere else," Webb noted. The Park Hill Golf Course has a conservation easement that mandates its use as a golf course, which was upheld when voters rejected proposals to lift the easement for mixed-use development in 2023.
The acquisition signifies a new chapter for the Park Hill community, as officials hope to enhance local quality of life while balancing development and affordability. The approval and execution of this deal sends a clear message about Denver’s commitment to preserving public spaces amidst urban growth.