Mariposa Redevelopment (Denver Housing Authority)

Integration of stormwater management strategies within parks and open spaces enriches character of affordable housing development

The Mariposa Redevelopment Master Plan revitalizes a four block area at 10th and Osage, near Auraria Campus. Wenk Associates developed an open space and parks system integrating sustainable principles and stormwater management strategies to achieve the Denver Housing Authority’s lofty green agenda. Green spaces range in scale from small courtyards developed around building units, to shared parks spaces with playgrounds, picnic areas and a community garden. Streetscape typologies complement the surrounding uses for commercial, residential, and mixed-use areas and incorporate bike lanes. Wenk Associates is currently completing phases I and II.

The plan calls for narrowing Mariposa Street, which will provide the community with a safe street as well as create a neighborhood character. Mariposa Street will have a planted center median, on street parking, a shared bicycle and vehicle lane, and includes areas for stormwater treatment and detention. The comprehensive stormwater management system will improve water quality and manage storm flows for the project area and drainage sub-basin. The plan utilizes existing street right-of-ways (ROW) in order to treat and manage a large majority of storm runoff allowing for greater development densities. The plan utilizes all available space creating a denser, pedestrian-friendly and lively community that can be a national model for TOD Redevelopment.