What's in store for Denver in 2026
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The Denver skyline stands against the Rocky Mountains on a sunny November day. Photo: Aaron M. Sprecher/Getty Images
The Mile High City is barreling into a year of visible change that includes building boldly, spending cautiously and potentially arguing loudly about what comes next.
Here's what's set to shape the city in 2026, local leaders tell us.
🏗️ Development: Brace for construction fatigue.
- State of play: Dozens of projects are advancing, including redevelopment around Ball Arena, voter-approved investments from Mayor Mike Johnston's Vibrant Denver bond package, hundreds of millions in downtown upgrades, a major Civic Center Park renovation, and work on a women's soccer stadium at Santa Fe Yards. RTD is also slated to finish rail reconstruction through the downtown core.
- Between the lines: What's likely to dominate the development discussion will be a community planning process around the Denver Broncos' proposed stadium at Burnham Yard. That conversation will continue through 2026 and is bound to bring big debates.
- What they're saying: "With transformative infrastructure projects spanning across the city, the momentum is building as we invest in Denver's future," Shelby Morse, spokesperson for the city's economic development agency, tells us. "Not only will these expand local experiences, but numerous projects will provide opportunity for quality jobs and affordable housing."
✈️ Tourism: We're in for "a blockbuster year" — and the calendar backs it up, Visit Denver spokesperson Taylor Shields tells us.
- Zoom in: With the World Cup bringing international fans to the region, Denver is positioning itself as an "oasis" between matches, Shields says. This summer's schedule also includes a near-daily rotation of festivals and concerts.
🏠 Real estate: After years of pandemic-fueled heat, home prices across the West are expected to keep cooling as inventory rises, migration slows and insurance costs climb, industry economists predict.
- Yes, but: Denver still ranks as a top market for commercial real estate investment in 2026, thanks to its diversified economy, skilled workforce and quality of life, per CBRE.
- The intrigue: Impacts will vary by neighborhood. Mixed-use, amenity-rich districts like Cherry Creek are expected to outperform, while others may lag.
💸 City coffers: Municipal leaders are operating under what Johnston has called the most conservative budget in 15 years — one that cuts "to the bone."
- Threat level: Most departments face reductions, and residents are likely to feel the effects, whether through slower services or scaled-back programs.
🏟️ Sports: This will be a banner year.
- The big picture: The Broncos are back in the NFL playoffs. April brings superstar Lionel Messi to Empower Field for the Colorado Rapids' home opener. Spring kicks off with Denver Summit FC's inaugural match. And both the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche are poised for playoff runs.