Flo Apartments Open in Sun Valley: A Historic Milestone for Denver Housing

A New Era for Sun Valley: The Opening of Flo Apartments

On September 19, 2025, the Denver Housing Authority (DHA) proudly welcomed residents and city officials to the opening of the new Flo apartment building, a 212-unit residence specifically designed for elderly adults and those living with disabilities in the historically rich Sun Valley neighborhood. This event marks the completion of a major urban renewal project, featuring a total of seven new apartment buildings aimed at revitalizing one of the most economically challenged areas of Denver.

A Legacy of Transformation

Once populated by brick townhomes and single-family houses, Sun Valley underwent significant transformation as the city sought to create a denser mixed-income community. However, this change came at a cost; the demolition of over 1,000 public housing units led to the displacement of numerous low-income residents. Joaquín Cintrón Vega, the CEO of DHA, expressed at the ceremony, “What we are celebrating today is the fulfillment of a promise that we made to the community.” The groundbreaking vision was established in collaboration with the very community members it aims to serve.

Access and Affordability: A Priority

Flo apartments are part of DHA’s mission to ensure housing affordability, with rent capped to promote permanent affordability. Moreover, special consideration is given to residents who were displaced by the original demolitions. This is a crucial step in addressing the lingering effects of past housing policies on the most vulnerable populations. With the new Flo building, DHA has successfully delivered 965 affordable housing units across its developments.

The Path Ahead: Amenities and Future Prospects

While the housing developments are complete, the community’s progress is far from finished. Residents are eagerly awaiting the construction of the anticipated Sun Valley Riverfront Park, which promises to include a playground, splash pad, event plaza, and gardens, all expected to be completed by 2026. This amenity is a significant part of the community's vision for fostering connections and access to outdoor spaces.

Community Voices and Concerns

Jeanne Granville, president of the Sun Valley Community Coalition, articulated hope for the ongoing development, viewing the opening of Flo as just the beginning of a revitalization process. However, lingering questions about future developments, especially with the Denver Broncos planning a new stadium nearby, loom over the community. Residents are concerned about whether the promises made during past developments will be honored.

The journey of Sun Valley continues, with the community's voice leading the way. For Denver residents and those interested in urban development, Sun Valley offers a compelling case study of resilience, hope, and the critical importance of inclusive community planning.