Overview:
Denver City Council approved Regis University’s rezoning proposal, a mixed-use redevelopment project planned along Federal Boulevard.
With Denver City Council approving its rezoning proposal in December, Regis University is moving forward with plans for Regis Village, a mixed-use redevelopment project that could reshape the stretch of Federal Boulevard between 50th and 52nd avenues. Rev. D. Scott Hendrickson, president of Regis University, described the project as a way to open the university more directly to the surrounding community.
“I think it’s going to be a positive step forward for Regis,” Hendrickson said. “It will open up the Federal corridor as a front door to the university, allowing for a space for housing and businesses.”
The project will transform land along North Federal Boulevard into a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood featuring housing, retail, office space and communal gathering areas adjacent to the 148-year-old university. University leaders say the development is intended to strengthen connections between the campus and the surrounding Berkeley neighborhood.
“The vision for Regis Village is to create a pedestrian-friendly, community-oriented neighborhood that complements the main campus and establishes an active link along Federal Boulevard,” said Sheryl Tirol, Director of Communications for Regis University’s Marketing and Communications Office, in a 2025 news release. “The development will feature a mix of residential and retail uses, office space, and open areas, integrating campus-inspired elements into a friendly and sustainable urban environment.”
The rezoning proposal received unanimous approval from Denver City Council, clearing a major hurdle for redevelopment of both the campus and the adjacent Regis Square parcel. Senior City Planner Tony Lechuga said the project aligns with Denver’s broader goals around mobility, infrastructure and equitable urban development.
“Whatever I bring to City Council is something I can support, stand behind and say, ‘Yes, our department brings something that is in the best interest of the city,’” Lechuga said.
Lechuga has been involved in shaping the zoning framework required for the project. The development establishes new zoning guidelines intended to blend campus-style design with mixed-use commercial and residential spaces.
“Regis sought to build multi-use housing as well as treat the area as an extension to campus,” Lechuga said. “Regis is planning to provide the community with housing options it lacks, such as apartments and townhomes, as well as business space.”
The redevelopment is expected to include affordable housing options for families and seniors, along with potential health care facilities such as an urgent care center.
“It means low-income housing attractive to older people and families,” Hendrickson said. “Regis Village aims to expand eco-friendly infrastructure. We hope to include a few healthcare facilities, like an urgent care center.”
Meadow Vaughn, a Regis University student, believes the development will shed light on the community and open up numerous opportunities for improvement along Federal Boulevard. She also believes that the plan is a fantastic way to transform a mostly vacant lot into something much more, as well as help students in ways other than housing.
“I think it’s great that some of the revenue from this is going towards student scholarships,” Vaughn said. “Just like me, many students at Regis chose the school for its unique financial support system. I also am excited to see the strip mall go; most of it is vacant anyway and it’s a bummer to see a decent space like that not being used at all. I’m also tired of frequenting the same three chains just because it is what is closest to me.”
Still, Vaughn raised questions about how redevelopment could affect small businesses currently located in the area and access to free parking for students.
“I worry about the small businesses already in the strip mall. Where are they going to go? And where is our bookstore going to go? A lot of students also use that parking lot for free parking to avoid the expensive permits on campus, so it’ll be sad to see that resource go,” Vaughn said. “Not all of us can afford to spend $10/day or $250 on a permit just to park.”
Some neighborhood advocates have also raised concerns about how redevelopment may impact existing businesses and infrastructure. Regis officials say they have prioritized community input throughout the planning process, engaging local residents, business owners and neighborhood organizations through stakeholder meetings aimed at shaping the project’s design and pedestrian access.
“We value community input. We will revisit the master plan and rethink development as needed,” Hendrickson said. “As we move forward, we will do releases on that.”
While the project remains in its planning stages, city approval marks a significant step toward redevelopment of the corridor.
“I am looking forward to seeing a more beautiful, walkable campus,” Vaughn said. “I love spending my time at Regis, so I hope they contribute to providing these extra spaces for students to relax and have fun.”
