Arkins (RiNo) Promenade

Repurposing a local street into a vibrant, riverfront, pedestrian promenade

The Arkins (RiNo) Promenade project repurposes an existing local street within an aging industrial neighborhood that is rapidly transforming into a vital mixed-use arts district at the edge of downtown Denver. Wenk Associates developed conceptual planning and design development documents to transform the site into a mile-long, river edge, pedestrian corridor. Phase one design and construction was completed in July 2020.

The Arkins (RiNo) Promenade is linear park linking a series of outdoor rooms with amenities that include walking and bicycle access, river theater, gathering and play areas, an elevated walkway along the river, public art, and overlooks with seating areas. The promenade also provides outdoor spaces with landscaping, shade trees, native grass areas, and planters to filter stormwater management that improves the water quality in the South Platte River. 

Innovative approaches to treat stormwater within the right-of-way are incorporated into the park with curbless streets adjoining landscape-based (shallow vegetated swales) water quality areas. Custom elements, including a majestic 400-ft steel-based gangway (designed by Tres Birds), and a playground and site elements made of recycled/reused materials create a unique identity along the river for the RiNo community and for the city of Denver as a whole.

See 2023 ULI Colorado Impace Awards Inspire Category Winner video.