Last week, in downtown Denver, architectural engineering firm HCL Engineering & Surveying and landscape architecture company RIOS joined city officials and project partners to celebrate the groundbreaking of Skyline Park, a new public space on Arapahoe Street.

The ceremony marked the first phase of the park’s transformation into an inclusive, year-round civic destination. RIOS managing director Nate Cormier attended, alongside local politicians and businessmen, to celebrate the launch of construction on Block 2 (of three), home to the landmark Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower.

“There is nothing more Denver than the idea of being at peace in the tranquility and the joy of the outdoors in the middle of downtown. That is what Skyline is about,” comments Mayor Mike Johnston at the ceremony.

HCL Engineering will provide structural engineering for the project in partnership with RIOS Architecture, whose leadership and vision guided the park’s design. The project has been shaped by more than 2k community touchpoints to ensure the design reflects the people it serves.

According to RIOS, the design takes inspiration from Lawrence Halprin’s original vision for Skyline Park—a flowing sequence of connected spaces that guide people through the city. The revitalization removes barriers to improve accessibility and creates a continuous landscape that supports flexible programming for visitors year-round.

“We’re grateful for the collaboration with an incredible team, including the Downtown Denver Development Authority, Denver leadership, GOCO, Fransen Pittman Construction and dedicated partners who share a commitment to thoughtful urban design and community connection,” HCL states.

The firm notes that the restored design removes stairs and barriers, creating an inviting, inclusive space that weaves together Denver’s past with its future.

Find out more about the project here.