$44K Grant To Create Night Markets Under Colfax Viaduct

DENVER, CO — A state grant will fund a new community space, night markets and infrastructure enhancements under Denver's Colfax Viaduct near Empower Field at Mile High, officials announced Monday.

The West Colfax Business Improvement District received a Revitalizing Main Streets grant of $44,700 to create the “Under the Colfax Viaduct Community Night Markets," which is a collaboration with Denver Streets Partnership and the Westside Stadium Community Coalition. The Colorado Department of Transportation has also been involved in planning meetings.

The markets will include illuminated artwork, bike parking and wayfinding to draw shoppers, the organizations said.

“The West Colfax BID is delighted to work with our partners in Sun Valley on an art and light installation under the Colfax Viaduct for a series of night markets,” said Dan Shah, West Colfax Business Improvement District executive director.

“Working with the Denver Streets Partnership to expand access by bike, walking and transit through wayfinding and mobility enhancements — this concept brings to life the Sun Valley community’s concept for an international market destination under the viaduct. The market will feature cuisines from residents from around the world, and entrepreneurial opportunities for the vendors.”

Don't miss the latest news updates in Denver: Free Denver Patch Newsletters and Email Alerts | Facebook | Twitter

“We’re excited to see this community space come to life and become a new gathering spot for Coloradans,” Gov. Jared Polis said in a statement.

“Whether it's walking or cycling to this new night market, this state grant award will give the local community more options to safely arrive at a new destination that will help our economy.”

Construction on the new night markets is expected to take around eight months, and be completed in early 2022, officials said.