One of downtown Denver’s next projects got a financial boost.

Denver Parks and Recreation announced it received a $1 million grant from Great Outdoors Colorado to make “transformative” upgrades to the Central Business District’s Skyline Park.

As Denver starts reopening parts of 16th Street Mall after a lengthy and expensive construction project, the city is looking at Skyline Park as one of its next targets to activate.

As the main outdoor space within the Central Business District — an area struggling with high office vacancy rates and the plight of workers since the pandemic — Skyline Park is limited in its capabilities to host events and activities.

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The city aims to turn one of downtown’s biggest park spaces into a year-round destination with a flexible plaza space, ice rink and concession space for food and drinks to attract more visitors.

“The new Skyline Park will be a catalytic spark that adds vibrancy to Denver’s downtown,” said Jolon Clark, executive director of Denver Parks and Recreation, in a statement. “The new design aims to address the park’s challenges and breathe new life into the area by offering residents, workers, students, and visitors an accessible place to enjoy the outdoors and connect with one another.”

The first part of the project will focus on the block overlapping 16th Street Mall and includes the Daniels & Fisher Tower, according to the news release.

It will feature the seasonal ice rink and new plaza space, as well as a Colorado-themed garden, an upgraded bike lane and more shade and seating. The project is set to start construction in Fall 2025 and could be completed by the end of 2026.

The project is being funded by the Elevate Denver Bond Program for a total $2.5 million, according to the city.

The GOCO grant comes from Colorado Lottery proceeds meant to contribute toward the state’s parks, trails and wildlife.

“Dynamic parks and public spaces play a foundational role in building an inclusive, vibrant, economically vital downtown, and this investment in Skyline Park from GOCO is a significant milestone in bringing our community’s collective vision for this space to life,” said Downtown Denver Partnership CEO Kourtny Garrett in a statement.