The 2025 National Western Stock Show is in town, and we’re all saddled up for one of Colorado’s most cherished traditions. This historic event, which first kicked off in 1906, continues to draw crowds of over 700,000 people to Denver every year. Visitors come from far and wide to enjoy rodeos, horse shows, art exhibits, livestock competitions, and more. It’s a true celebration of Western heritage that establishes Colorado as a leader in agricultural innovation.
Each January, the Stock Show is held at the National Western Center, located in the heart of the Globeville, Elyria, and Swansea neighborhoods in Denver. Once complete, the National Western Center will span 250 acres and host not just the Stock Show but year-round events that bring folks together to celebrate agriculture, livestock, but also events that education and entertain.
But hold your horses! There’s a lot of work behind the scenes at the National Western Center to ensure the future of this historic site. With a major expansion underway, the campus is set to become a year-round destination for all walks of life.
Helping the National Western Center trot into the future
Wilson & Company has had the honor of working on several projects for the City and County of Denver that support the development of the National Western Center. It’s not our first rodeo; here’s a roundup of some of the key projects we’ve been proud to be a part of over the past few years.
Rebuilding Brighton Boulevard (47th Avenue to Race Court): An integral part of connecting the revitalized campus to the community, it was one of the first projects executed. Brighton Boulevard from 48th Avenue to Race Court is now open to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy!
Denver Rock Island Railroad (DRIR) Rail Corridor: The original Denver Rock Island Railroad (DRIR) rail lines bisected the campus and prevented public access to the South Platte River. This project included the consolidation and relocation of almost 3 miles of railroad tracks away from the river.
Grading work: We’ve worked on various grading projects that support the continued growth of the National Western Center, including the Stockyard Events Center, Livestock Center, and Equestrian Center.
Stockyard grading and drainage system: This project is all about taking care of the land and water. Our team designed an advanced diversion system that will help manage runoff during heavy rains. Wastewater can be diverted to the holding basin and delivered to the city’s wastewater system; cleaner water can be held until it can be discharged to the storm drain system. This ensures the river stays clean, even after a long day of hoofbeats.
Sheep Bridge: A remnant bridge section over the South Platte River, known as the “sheep bridge,” has been preserved as an interpretive artifact.
A legacy of Western heritage
As we continue to wrangle our efforts in support of the National Western Center, we’re reminded of how important it is to preserve the Western spirit. The expansion is dedicated to preserving the rich culture and Western heritage that the National Western Stock Show embodies, ensuring that future generations can experience and appreciate this historic tradition.
This year-round destination is one that Wilson & Company will take great pride in for years to come. As we support the growth of the National Western Center, we’re excited to see the continued success of the campus and the treasured Stock Show. So, saddle up and get ready. We can’t wait to be a part of the next chapter in its history.
Yee-haw!