New Details Show How Wynkoop Crossing Could Connect LoDo to the Ball Arena District
COLORADO – New design materials are offering a closer look at Wynkoop Crossing, a proposed pedestrian and bike bridge that would span Speer Boulevard and create a direct connection between Lower Downtown and the future Ball Arena redevelopment. The project is being positioned as a key piece of infrastructure within Kroenke Sports & Entertainment’s broader redevelopment plans, with the crossing intended to improve safety, accessibility, and overall connectivity in one of the most active areas of downtown Denver.
Addressing a Major Barrier Along Speer
Today, Speer Boulevard presents a significant barrier between LoDo, the Cherry Creek Trail, and the Ball Arena site. High traffic volumes, combined with large event crowds, have created ongoing challenges for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles alike.
According to the conceptual design summary, the crossing is intended to directly address these issues by creating a safe, grade-separated route that removes the need for pedestrians to navigate traffic at street level. The bridge would also serve as a new regional connection, linking the South Platte River trail system to downtown and the arena district, improving access for both daily users and event attendees.
Rendering of Wynkoop Crossing | SAR+
Design Focused on Movement and Experience
Plans show an elevated pedestrian bridge supported by a double-arch structure, designed as a modern interpretation of the existing “family of arches” found along Speer Boulevard. The design includes split, or “splayed,” walking and biking paths that allow for higher pedestrian volumes while maintaining openness and visibility along the corridor.
On both ends of the bridge, landings are designed as public spaces rather than simple access points. The LoDo side features a landscaped landing with gradual ramp access, while the arena side connects into a larger elevated promenade tied into future development phases.
Together, these elements are intended to create what designers describe as an “outdoor room,” blending circulation with public space and creating a new destination within downtown.
Rendering of Wynkoop Crossing | SAR+
Phase 1 Development Plans
The crossing is closely tied to the first phase of the Ball Arena redevelopment, which includes a mix of residential, hotel, and venue uses surrounding the site. Conceptual site plans show the bridge connecting directly into this new development, with ground-level retail, community spaces, and active frontages designed to support year-round activity beyond event days.
The project also preserves existing infrastructure like Manny’s Bridge, while introducing new pedestrian routes that link into surrounding streets, open spaces, and transit connections.
Additional materials outline a detailed lighting strategy integrated into the structure of the bridge. The system is designed to enhance visibility and safety for pedestrians while minimizing glare and light spill into surrounding areas. Lighting levels would adjust based on time of day and activity, with brighter conditions during events and early evening hours, and lower intensity later at night.
Beyond its functional role, the bridge is also being designed as a visual landmark. The arch structure, combined with integrated lighting and elevated views, is intended to create a recognizable gateway between downtown and the arena district. Design guidelines emphasize maintaining the character of Speer Boulevard while introducing a contemporary structure that complements the surrounding historic and urban context.
Rendering of Wynkoop Crossing | SAR+
What Comes Next
Wynkoop Crossing remains in the conceptual design and review phase, with additional refinements expected as the project moves through the city’s approval process. As plans for the Ball Arena redevelopment continue to evolve, the crossing is expected to play a central role in shaping how people move between some of Denver’s most active districts.
Development Team
Developer: Kroenke Sports & Entertainment
Design Team: SAR+, Wenk Associates, ZGF Architects
Engineering: Martin/Martin
Contractor: Kiewit
All project information was sourced from publicly available site plans, renderings, and permitting documents.
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All project information was sourced from publicly available site plans, renderings, and permitting documents.
4 minute read • New design plans show how Wynkoop Crossing could create a direct pedestrian and bike connection between LoDo, the Cherry Creek Trail, and the Ball Arena redevelopment site.