By KIERAN NICHOLSON | knicholson@denverpost.com | The Denver Post
A planned Topgolf complex in Thornton took a step forward Tuesday night with City Council approval of a resolution looking at a new location in the Larkridge Retail Center.
After passing on a proposed location at Interstate 25 and 136th Avenue, the golf-focused outfit is aiming a bit farther north up I-25, but still in Thornton, near 160th Avenue, according to Topgolf and city officials.
Last month, Topgolf abandoned its plan for a Rolling Hills area site at 136th Avenue when a local resident filed a second lawsuit against the city over the project. The lawsuits claimed the massive 65,000-square-foot, three-story project, with 102 driving-range bays, restaurant and rooftop terrace would diminish nearby residential property values, trigger traffic jams and pose a threat to wildlife.
Topgolf in CentennialKathryn Scott/Special to The Denver PostThis August 2016 file photo shows Debbie Holle spending time at Topgolf in Centennial.
Dallas-based Topgolf is pursuing its second location in Colorado to accompany its Centennial center. The company also operates combined golf-and-entertainment centers in Salt Lake City, Oklahoma City and El Paso, Texas.
Just east of I-25 between 160th and 168th avenues, Larkridge is home to more than 30 stores, including big-box anchors, shops, restaurants and banks. The southwest corner of the retail center is just north of 160th Avenue.
“The current development application proposed by Topgolf meets all the requirements to qualify for administrative review and to be designated as a project of economic significance,” according to a council briefing document.
Topgolf’s application, according to a “council communication,” for the current site does not require a zone change; will not be a detriment to public health, safety or welfare; and will significantly increase sales and property tax revenues for the city, as well as employment opportunities.
City staff members recommended the council authorize the “use of the administrative review process” for the Topgolf project at Larkridge, and the council voted its approval Tuesday night.
Approval of the resolution clears the way for the city manager to process Topgolf’s application for a conceptual site plan and development permit, moving the proposal forward.