11-Acre Pearl Arts District Planned Near Future Colorado Connector Passenger Rail Station
DENVER, CO — A major new mixed-use district is being planned in East Boulder that would transform an approximately 11-acre site into a walkable destination centered around arts, housing, entertainment, and transit.
Aerial Rendering - Pearl Arts District | Rendering Provided by Sasaki
Known as the Pearl Arts District, the proposal would redevelop property near the future Colorado Connector passenger rail station into a new neighborhood anchored by a 2,500-capacity performing arts venue. The project is envisioned as a year-round destination for concerts, community events, touring productions, and local performances while also potentially serving as a future venue for the Sundance Film Festival.
Beyond the performing arts venue, plans call for more than 500 new homes, approximately 30,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurant space, more than 55,000 square feet dedicated to arts and cultural uses, and a hotel with approximately 150 rooms. Public plazas, parks, outdoor gathering spaces, and public art are also integrated throughout the district to encourage year-round activity.
Conceptual Rendering - Pearl Arts District | Rendering Provided by Sasaki
The master plan is designed as a transit-oriented neighborhood located adjacent to the future Colorado Connector passenger rail station and Boulder Junction transit facilities. A network of pedestrian and bicycle connections would link the district together, while a central linear park would serve as both a public gathering space and stormwater infrastructure. Buildings have been positioned to preserve views of the Flatirons and create an active pedestrian environment throughout the site.
According to the project team, the district is intended to strengthen Boulder's arts community while expanding housing opportunities and creating a destination that connects culture, mobility, and public life. The development is also projected to generate approximately $2.5 billion in economic impact over time.
The proposal remains in the planning and entitlement process. If approved, construction could begin as early as 2028.
Development Team
Developer: Conscience Bay Company
Architect: Sasaki
Project Partners: 4240 Architecture, Burdekin English Design, Trestle Strategy Group
Read More About Upcoming Construction Projects
Get a deeper dive on the who, what, when and why behind the city’s next construction projects.
Interested in sponsorship? Learn more about a founding sponsors and how to get involved.
All project information was sourced from publicly available site plans, renderings, and permitting documents.
4 minute read • The City of Englewood has unveiled a $6.3 million renovation of Pirates Cove Water Park, adding new waterslides, a leisure pool, an event pavilion, and more before the 2027 season.