The Denver Broncos have announced plans for their new planned retractable-roof stadium set to be finished in 2031.
In a joint letter, Broncos Owners Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner joined Denver Mayor ike Johnston and Colorado Governor Jared Polis in announcing Burnham Yard as the preferred site for the franchise’s new stadium.
The stadium will be privately funded by ownership, meaning no tax-payer dollars are needed for the project.
Burnham Yard was described as the “heart” of Denver in the letter.
“Once a vital railyard that played a key role in Denver’s past, Burnham Yard now represents a transformational opportunity to reimagine the future with deep respect for the rich history of the area,” the letter states.
The team intends to build a “world-class retractable roof stadium” at the site. A move towards a retractable roof is a necessary one for the Broncos in hosting major events such as the Super Bowl.
Penner first toured the site in 2023, according to the Denver Post's Parker Gabriel.
“We fell in love with it almost right away,” Penner said. “It’s so unique –– the fact that it’s so close to Mile High, the proximity to downtown, access to I-25 and rail, and then we just loved the historic nature of the site given the importance of the railyard and the rail in Colorado’s history.”
The Broncos have called Empower Field at Mile High their home since 2001. Before then, the team played at the original Mile High Stadium for 40 years up until 2000.
With the new stadium not expected to be finished until 2031, the Broncos look to bring playoff football to Mile High as often as they can before their departure.
Denver returned to the playoffs last season after nine seasons, the same season they defeated the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50. Their future once again looks promising, as they possess one of the most feared defenses in the league and are led by second-year quarterback Bo Nix.
“There is a long road ahead and we believe we can get there together. Every step of the way, our approach will be guided by humility, respect, and a shared commitment to the city of Denver, state of Colorado, and all of Broncos Country,” the letter closed.