The curtain is finally rising on the long-awaited rebirth of the Loretto Heights Theater. City officials have approved a massive $45,482,688 contract with Franzen-Pittman Construction Co., Inc. to completely overhaul the iconic venue located at 3001 South Federal Boulevard in the 80201 ZIP code.
This isn't just a facelift; it is a full-scale resurrection of a cultural landmark that once anchored the all-female Loretto Heights College campus, founded by the Sisters of Loretto in 1888. The renovation comes after years of dormancy and follows a recent $4 million investment approved by voters in 2025 to build a new parking structure adjacent to the site.
The approved agreement sets a construction timeline of 567 days from the Notice to Proceed, signaling a multi-year commitment to restoring the theater's architectural grandeur. This funding, part of the city's broader Vibrant Bond initiative, aims to transform the facility into a modern performance space while preserving its historic character. The project represents the latest major step in the reimagining of the former college campus, which is currently being rezoned for a mix of market-rate and income-restricted housing.
For Southwest Denver, this approval marks a turning point. The theater has stood silent while the surrounding neighborhood evolved, but the new contract ensures it will soon rejoin the city's arts scene. The $45.5 million price tag underscores the city's intent to make the theater a central hub for the new residential community rising around it, blending the area's educational history with its residential future.
Residents interested in tracking the progress of file number 26-0977 or viewing the full contract details can visit the Denver city portal for more information on this legislative record.