New Cherry Creek zoning could mean more hotels, less required parking

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City and County of Denver

Rendering of how building heights will get lower approaching Third Avenue, according to a new zoning code for Cherry Creek North as recommended by a volunteer task force.

Molly Armbrister

Reporter- Denver Business Journal

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New zoning rules in Cherry Creek North that take effect Thursday could lead to changes in the area, including more hotels, taller buildings and reduced parking requirements.

The changes were passed by the Denver City Council earlier this week. They were based on recommendations made by a volunteer task force, called the Cherry Creek District Zoning Technical Task Force.

Rough boundaries for the area where the zoning changes are taking effect are University Boulevard, Steele Street, Third Avenue and First Avenue. The changes are aimed at encouraging different kinds of development in the area while retaining Cherry Creek North's existing physical character.

Minimum parking requirements will be reduced, according to a summary of the changes, which can be accessed in full here.

Right now, the off-street parking ratios in Cherry Creek are the highest in the city, according to the summary, and are higher than market demand, which inhibits economic reinvestment.

The new zoning reduces the required off-street parking for some permitted uses, include two parking spaces for every 1,000 square feet of gross floor area of office space and 2.5 parking spaces for every 1,000 square feet of retail sales and restaurant space.

Residential parking requirements will be reduced from two spaces per dwelling unit to one.

Those who choose to build on small lots in the district also will be given an incentive to include open space in their development plans. In exchange for providing 15 percent of a given lot for open space, the developers will be allowed a few benefits, including the ability to construct their building a bit taller if they choose.

Molly Armbrister covers real estate, retail and construction for the Denver Business Journal and writes for the "Real Deals" blog. Phone: 303-803-9232.