Denver committee advances Red Rocks backstage design contract

Denver’s Parks, Arts & Culture Committee advanced a design contract Tuesday for Red Rocks Amphitheatre’s backstage expansion and accessibility improvements, taking the item up on consent as part of a larger block of actions, the committee’s video and transcript show.

The contract with Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc., or SEH, is described in the committee presentation as a $4.73 million agreement running through Dec. 1, 2030. The Legistar action record lists the amount as $4,450,983.25. The available records do not explain the difference.

The contract covers architectural and engineering services through the construction-administration phase. The project has $35.1 million in Vibrant Denver bond funding. During the discussion, a council member characterized the amount remaining after design as roughly $30 million for construction, but officials did not present a final construction estimate.

The proposed expansion would use the existing backstage staff parking lot and extend below grade. Officials described a five-story building, with two floors below grade and three above. The above-ground portion is intended to remain subordinate to the existing stage and towers.

Planned features include ADA-compliant access, an elevator, safer stage connections that do not rely on existing ramps, covered performer parking, production offices, storage, and upgraded kitchen and dining areas. The project also would improve backstage spaces for performers, production crews and staff, according to the committee packet.

The design must preserve Red Rocks’ views and sightlines. Officials said no sightlines should be affected and that exposed rock would remain visible in areas including dressing rooms and the dining room. The concept may change during design.

Design work is expected to continue through 2026. Project planning identifies possible excavation in fall or winter 2027. Construction is expected to occur in phases during Red Rocks’ off-seasons, with the site restored for each concert season before work resumes. Officials said some contained daytime work could potentially continue during shows, but the record does not establish whether concerts will be canceled, relocated or disrupted. It also does not specify future effects on parking, traffic, noise or general public access.

Construction was cautiously estimated in the discussion at two and a half to three years. Initial work could include excavation, foundations and shoring before later phases of the expansion.

Because Red Rocks is a Denver landmark and a National Historic Landmark, the project must undergo review by Denver Landmark Preservation. Officials identified the Landmark Commission as the reviewing body, but the available materials do not state when an application will be filed or what conditions the commission may impose.

The committee action advances the project beyond the previously pending design-contract consideration. It does not establish final Denver City Council approval, a construction contract, a final construction cost or a detailed concert-disruption plan.