High Rise Moves Forward In Cherry Creek North

DENVER (CBS4)- Neighbors in Cherry Creek North have lost their fight against a high rise development. The Denver City Council approved the development Tuesday night.

The seven-story building with offices, retail and condos will be built at 245 Columbine Street where vacant The Case Building now stands. The building housed a Post Office branch for several years.

City council members voted unanimously 11-0 to approve the application to rezone the property.

The city council heard from both sides in what was a divisive issue.

"I think this development is good for Cherry Creek, I think it's good for the city," said former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb.

There were 37 speakers who spoke to the city council. The comments ranged greatly in both the positive and negative impact on the community.

"New development and redevelopment in Cherry Creek North has increased overall home values consistently over the last 30 years."

"Five-thousand people have indicated that they don't want this development."

"It's not unusual to hear honking and people swearing at one another because it's just very congested."

"I don't know if I'm incredibly lucky or skilled or whatever but generally I can find a place to park when I go to Cherry Creek."

Some of the biggest concerns among those opposed to the development- traffic and parking.

The developer did reduce the building plan by 13 percent as a compromise to the original plan submitted.

Signs near the site indicate that construction will begin this summer.