Wheat Ridge City Council is considering a new custom zoning designation for the former Lutheran Medical Center site that could shape the future of one of the city’s most prolific properties. The proposed mixed-use zone, MU-LLC, was designed to reflect the community’s vision for the campus: more green space, diverse housing options, walkability, and the preservation of cherished community assets.
If adopted, the MU-LLC zone would be among the most community-driven zoning efforts in Wheat Ridge’s history. It was crafted to align with the Lutheran Legacy Campus Master Plan, developed through input from more than 1,200 residents over several years of public meetings, various community participation events, surveys, and workshops.
Key elements of the proposed zoning include a requirement that 20% of the site be dedicated to public use, such as parks and trails, twice the standard of similar mixed-use developments. A new public trail would stretch across the campus and connect with regional pathways, improving pedestrian and bicycle access while offering new recreational opportunities.
The zoning also aims to balance growth with neighborhood character. Lower-density housing would be required along the perimeter, with taller buildings, capped at five stories, limited to the center of the site. Voters backed this approach in November 2024, when 67% approved a height restriction for the campus core.
Under the proposed zoning, several legacy buildings, including the beloved Blue House and chapel, would be preserved. Space is also set aside for potential civic uses, adding flexibility for future community-focused services.
Should redevelopment proceed, developers must fund and complete traffic and parking studies before construction. To minimize the impact on surrounding neighborhoods, they would also be responsible for infrastructure improvements, including sidewalks, drainage, and utility upgrades.
The city has emphasized that any future development on the site must comply with the community-backed zoning, rather than requesting additional changes later. This measure is intended to give both residents and potential developers clarity and predictability.
Because a protest was filed against the rezoning, a supermajority vote from city council is required for approval. The outcome of the vote will determine whether this vision becomes reality.
Please note: Wheat Ridge City Council will vote on this rezone on April 28, 2025, after this article has been sent to print.
To learn more about the Lutheran Legacy Campus and to see the results of the city council vote, visit: whatsupwheatridge.com/lutheran
