As the National Western Stock Show nears its 100th anniversary, show officials and civic leaders are exploring an expansion that could turn its complex into a year-round rodeo and entertainment venue along the lines of Calgary Stampede Park or the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo complex.
That could mean expanding the existing 95-acre site at Interstate 70 and Brighton Boulevard or moving to a new location.
Pat Grant, president and chief executive of the National Western says, “We like where we are. We’d like to stay.” Those are encouraging words, because the show makes a strong contribution to Denver’s image and its economy.
“We need to go through a visioning process with what kind of program needs we expect to see in the next 10, 15, 20 or 30 years,” Grant said. So, Grant said the show “cannot foreclose or preclude the need for relocation.” Speculation on possible new locations have included land near Denver International Airport or on East 56th Avenue, south of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.
The stock show has already run out of indoor space for the four major kinds of animals exhibited, according to Grant. Also, some of the complex’s facilities need renovation. Although 109 other events besides the stock show are are held there each year, the complex lacks some of the amenities of newer venues. That makes it hard to book some kinds of events.
The show’s future in Denver also could be affected by the state’s plans for improving I-70 and whether RTD needs land in the area for rail projects.
The National Western is estimated to pump about $80 million a year into the local economy, so it’s no surprise city hall is taking an active role. “We’re starting (to look) at the various proposals for the highway realignment as well as the National Western’s need to renew their facilities,” said Denver economic development chief John Huggins.
Taxpayers have a financial stake in the National Western by dint of a $30 million 1989 bond issue that paid for additions to the Hall of Education, construction of the Events Center and other improvements. Also, the city collects sales tax on about $5 million in retail sales by show vendors.
The stock show and Denver have grown up together, so we hope show executives and city officials carefully consider the best interests of both as they chart the show’s future.
