Broncos President Damani Leech joined other Denver sports leaders on Apr. 16 to discuss the future of sports development in the city during a panel hosted by the Denver Business Journal.
The discussion focused on how new stadium and mixed-use developments could transform neighborhoods across Denver. Leech appeared alongside Kroenke Sports and Entertainment President Kevin Demoff and Denver Summit FC President Jen Millet, highlighting shared goals for community impact.
Leech said, “You look at Burnham Yard, Empower Field at Mile High, River Mile, Santa Fe Yards, it’s a pretty transformational time for the city of Denver. I think a lot of us have an opportunity to do some really, really special things, when we step back and think about what we can really do for this city. … We’re going to play a role in that, and I’m excited about that.” Demoff added: “It’s great to be in a city where the standard is championships.”
Panelists discussed how stadiums can serve as anchors or focal points within new developments. Millet described planned stadiums as “an anchor” while Demoff called them “the glue” for surrounding projects. They agreed these venues should become vibrant spaces used beyond game days.
Leech credited the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group with researching best practices from similar projects around the country and said they are committed to making their development unique. He explained that current plans call for medium-density construction at Burnham Yard so it complements nearby historic neighborhoods rather than overshadowing them.
Leech also mentioned ambitions for hosting major events like the Super Bowl or NFL Draft but emphasized collaboration with local government is needed: “[The Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group wants] to build something in partnership with the city and with the state,” he said.
Demoff concluded: “This city has the capacity for all three of these projects.” The panel suggested ongoing cooperation among teams will help shape future growth in Denver.
