Derby Downtown District
The historic Derby Downtown District(PDF, 1MB) is an important part of Commerce City’s identity – both past and future. Longtime residents recall its heyday as a bustling activity center during the 1950s and 1960s, while current residents and business owners see its vast potential to once again become an important community hub. Revitalizing the district, re-establishing it as a destination and enhancing its visibility are just some of the goals of the Derby Master Plan as envisioned by the Commerce City Urban Renewal Authority.
History of Derby
One of the original railroad towns on the Front Range, Derby combined with Irondale and Adams City in 1952 to form what is now Commerce City. Remembered as “Big D” by many locals, the area has long been considered the city’s downtown and is still often referred to as the heart and soul of Commerce City.
The area defined as Derby includes 130 individual properties:
- 64 commercial
- 60 residential
- 3 parks
- 3 churches
Most of the original buildings remaining in Derby were built between the 1950s and 1970s and are representative of the prevalent architectural themes of the time. A number of buildings in the district’s core, around E. 72nd Place and Monaco Street, are distinctive examples of their 1950s construction. The term “googie” has been adopted to refer to the style of architecture, art and signage typical to this period.
Rebuilding the Derby Diamond for the Future
This section will be updated throughout construction to provide the latest information.
Reconstruction of the brick paver intersection at E. 72nd Place and Monaco Street, known as the “Derby Diamond” is expected to begin in late February and is expected to continue through June.
The project replaces the aging brick surface with durable, low-maintenance colored concrete designed to better withstand traffic and reduce future upkeep. Improvements also include enhanced pedestrian gathering areas and new water quality features at each corner to support stormwater management.
This work represents a long-term investment in the Derby Downtown district, strengthening both the function and appearance of this key intersection.
Schedule
Construction Start: Late February
Anticipated Completion: June 2026 (weather dependent)
Work Phases Include:
- Site preparation and removal of existing brick pavers
- Base and infrastructure improvements
- Installation of water quality features
- Placement of colored concrete
- Final pedestrian area enhancements and finishing work
The schedule may adjust due to weather or unforeseen conditions. Updates will be posted on this page as work progresses.
What to Expect
During construction, the intersection at 72nd Place and Monaco Street will be temporarily closed.
Motorists, customers, and nearby businesses can expect:
- Modified access routes
- Temporary detours and traffic pattern changes
- Construction equipment and activity in the area
- Clearly posted signage to guide traffic
Every effort will be made to maintain access to surrounding businesses throughout the project. Short-term disruptions are anticipated, but the improvements are designed to provide lasting benefits.
Benefits
The completed project will provide:
- A stronger, more durable intersection surface
- Reduced long-term maintenance needs
- Improved pedestrian gathering spaces
- Enhanced stormwater management through new water quality features
- A refreshed appearance that supports Derby Downtown’s continued revitalization
These upgrades are intended to create a more resilient intersection that better serves residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.
Business and Resident Information
We understand construction can impact daily routines and local operations. The project team is committed to minimizing disruptions wherever possible.
- Access to businesses will be maintained during construction.
- Work will occur during designated construction hours.
- Regular updates will be provided to keep the community informed.
If you have specific concerns about access or operations, please contact the project team:
Project Contact:
Mark Wallis, Public Works Project Manager
(303) 289-8157
mwallis@c3gov.com
Revitalization
Since 2005, the city has implemented several programs to support redevelopment in Derby in order to strengthen the business community with new shops, restaurants and other services while also supporting the growth of existing businesses. A combination of grant funding and private investment has contributed to these efforts.
Resource Documents
Important Information for Derby Businesses
To help maintain the uniqueness of Derby, the district follows special design standards for architecture, landscaping and other factors affecting public areas. These are intended to capture the spirit of 1950s-era architecture (such as the Save-A-Lot grocery store at Monaco Street and E. 73rd Avenue) while also including other complimentary styles.
To ensure these guidelines are met, changes to buildings and properties within the district must be approved by the Derby Review Board.
Learn more about the Derby review process(PDF, 191KB).
Apply for a Development or Design Review
Commercial Catalyst Program
The Derby Review Board oversees this program offering funding to help Derby business owners improve building facades (i.e. painting, windows, awning, lighting), signage and landscaping on their property. To date, the city has contributed around $400,000 to local businesses for such improvements.
Learn more about the Commercial Catalyst Program(PDF, 165KB).
Commercial Catalyst Program Request Form(PDF, 113KB)
Note: Applicants must also submit the Design review/redevelopment application. All program applications must follow Derby design standards and are subject to approval by the Derby Review Board.
Recent capital improvements in the district include:
- Revitalization of Joe Reilly Park (6401 E. 72nd Pl.)
- $1 million in intersection improvements at (Derby Diamond) Monaco Street and E. 72nd Place
- Creation of the Derby Review Board (Ordinance 2043)
- Re-vamping the Commerce City Small Business Resource Center (7270 Monaco St.)
- Completion of roadway and pedestrian improvements along E. 72nd Avenue
- Construction of the Highway 2 widening project
- Development of a Lighting & Signage plan for the district