A 17-acre field just north of downtown is the site of the largest major infill development to break ground in Denver in recent years.

Denargo Market, which broke ground in Denver's River North area Thursday, is the work of a joint venture between developers Golub & Co. and Formativ that is expected to total as much as 3M SF when it's complete. The companies this week marked the beginning of Phase 1, which will focus largely on infrastructure and a 4-acre green space.

The Denver City Council approved plans for the mixed-use project nearly two years ago. When complete, it will include one of the largest multifamily developments in the city. Office, retail, condos and entertainment space are also planned for the project.

“Today marks the start of improvements to the public realm that will come to define the Denargo Market experience,” Golub & Co. Vice President of Investment and Development Laura Newman said during the groundbreaking, according to a press release. “Designed as a true community gathering space, we’ve intentionally protected mountain and city views, open green spaces and riverfront accessibility to ensure these vital elements will forever be part of the public experience at Denargo Market; we’re thrilled to be kicking off that work today.”

The first phase of construction, which will include a sports court, dog park, art installation and public plaza, is set to deliver in 2025.

Another aspect of the project is already underway. In January, developers with Pennrose and Rivet Development Partners broke ground on a 56-unit affordable housing complex for people aged 18 to 24 who are experiencing homelessness. The property, located about a half-mile from Denargo Market at 2700 Wewatta St. in Denver, will be managed by Boulder-based service provider TGTHR.

2700 Wewatta was one of the first parts of the project to be built because Denver has seen a large influx in young adults experiencing homelessness over the last several years. There were 295 unhoused people in the 18-24 age group in Denver in 2023, a 32% increase since 2018, according to the most recent Point In Time Count.

Denver’s planning board has also advanced Golub and Formativ’s plans to build a 16-story, 380-unit mixed-use development at the corner of Delgany and Denargo streets. The proposed development includes more than 4K SF of ground-floor retail and a rooftop bar, as well as private balconies. The development is expected to break ground in Q1 2025.

“Developing 17 acres of prime riverfront space here in Denver is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the culmination of years of development work in this area for our team,” Formativ CEO Sean Campbell said in a release. “This is the largest infill taking shape in Denver right now, and it will be a game-changer for inclusivity in our city.”