Activate Delgany Bridge Committee

REOPEN DELGANY BRIDGE

Reopen Delgany Bridge is a community-led project to repair and reopen Denver’s 1891 railroad bridge along Cherry Creek. The bridge crosses over Cherry Creek near Delgany Street connecting parks, trails and the surrounding amenities and communities.  The bridge is a testament to both the integral role of railroads in Denver’s early history and our city’s modern vision for a walkable and bike-friendly urban outdoors.

Our Challenge

Delgany Bridge has been closed since 2021 due to broken and deteriorating planks that made passage unsafe. Inspections revealed issues that require a larger restoration project. Extensive research determined that Delgany Bridge has no owner of record. Preservation of the bridge has been entrusted to the community in partnership with the Lower Downtown Neighborhood Association, LoDoNA, who are committed to facilitating the process of restoring this bridge.

Connecting People and Places

Delgany Bridge provides pedestrians safe and coherent connections to LoDo, Ball Arena, Confluence Park and neighboring communities. Commuter cyclists and others who require access to the associated trail systems are eager to see the bridge reopened.  This vital link strengthens our community and promotes a more accessible, sustainable city.

A bike and pedestrian-friendly city stimulates local businesses and promotes a more equitable urban environment.  Safe pathways are key to achieving that vision.  Delgany Bridge is in a vibrant section of Denver and its closure has resulted in confusing and hazardous detours.

A Part of Denver’s History

Built in 1891, the Delgany Bridge is a historic reminder of Denver’s railroad heritage. Restoring the bridge honors our past and preserves a unique piece of the city’s infrastructure for future generations.

Site of Denver Public Arts – VIRGA

Home to Denver Public Art’s sculpture, VIRGA, Delgany Bridge is a unique space. Reopening the bridge will restore the site that inspired and contributes to the artwork, revitalizing VIRGA’s place in Denver’s public arts scene. Public Art enhances civic pride and enriches public places like Lower Downtown and Delgany Bridge which are visited by both locals and tourists.

The Orphan Bridge

Ownership issues have complicated repairs since the bridge was closed three years ago.  Though extensive research was done, no owner of record could be determined.  Due to city regulations, resolution of the ownership issue has to be community-led.  The Activate Delgany Bridge Committee is actively working with a local non-profit and the city to negotiate the needed details for a resolution of ownership.  With the ownership question approaching conclusion, we will soon be fundraising, and we look forward to seeing Delgany Bridge reopened!