In collaboration with HDR, Snøhetta, and the City and County of Denver, Superbloom is developing a feasibility study and vision plan of Cherry Creek and Speer Boulevard with the goal of revitalizing the city’s primary ecological corridor, with community engagement efforts to inform the project in the form of open houses. From trail pathways to wildlife habitat to softening the floodway’s edges, we can imagine a deeper connection to our landscape through this historic urban artery. The portion of Cherry Creek that passes through downtown Denver has changed significantly in the past two centuries. Once a lush waterway, the stream was channelized when Speer Boulevard was constructed during Denver’s City Beautiful Movement of the early 20th century. Today, we see the stream contained within concrete retaining walls to protect the adjacent roads from floodwaters. As Denver continues to evolve, so does our treatment of our precious resources– with a greater understanding of the city’s ecological role, perhaps the next adaptation of Cherry Creek will feature a restoration of natural functions in an urban context.

Collaborators: HDR, Snøhetta