Steady Plans, Big Vision: The Broncos Look Toward Burnham Yard

The Broncos aren’t just talking football — they’re talking future. The team recently hosted a Community Information Meeting at La Alma Recreation Center to share early plans for a potential new stadium site at Burnham Yard — and to hear directly from residents. It’s not about rushing a decision; it’s about getting it right.

Broncos President Damani Leech made it clear the vision extends well beyond football. The goal isn’t simply a stadium — it’s a year-round destination. In his words, he hopes visitors will one day ask where they should go in Denver and be told, “You should go to Burnham Yard.” Early site maps show plans for community open spaces, designated tailgating areas, and a mixed-use district that could include restaurants, retail, entertainment, housing, and offices. The emphasis? Creating something that serves the community every day — not just on Sundays.

At the same time, the project is still very much in its early stages. There are no renderings yet, no finalized capacity numbers, and no architect selected. Burnham Yard remains the team’s “preferred site,” and land acquisition is still in process. Construction, if approved, is estimated to begin in 2027 with a targeted opening in 2031, aligning with the expiration of the current Empower Field lease.

Community feedback played a central role in the meeting. Traffic, parking, and light rail access were top concerns, and the team indicated they anticipate a similar number of parking spaces as currently exist at Empower Field. There are also discussions about improving RTD rail access to better serve the area. Residents were encouraged to ask questions, provide feedback, and complete surveys — reinforcing that this is a collaborative process, not a done deal.

For Colorado residents this matters. A new stadium wouldn’t just reshape a neighborhood; it would create a new gathering place for the entire state. At its core, this project is focused on careful planning, realistic timelines, and creating something built to last. If it comes together as envisioned, Burnham Yard could become more than a stadium — it could become part of Colorado’s next chapter.