Plans have been announced to demolish a building in downtown Denver in order to make way for the construction of a new outdoor patio that will be part of a larger entertainment space.
The plan for the structure at 1962 Market Street, as announced by the Denver-based Monfort Companies, is sparking opposition primarily because the building for decades was the home to a popular jazz club.
Otherwise known as “The Pec,” the club and bar El Chapultepec opened in 1933 and for years showcased a variety of talented local and regional jazz artists. Frank Sinatra dropped by one night and Bill Clinton in 1992 joined the club’s house band playing sax.
The Monfort Company purchased the property in 2022, announcing plans shortly afterwards to develop an entertainment venue in the area. While Monfort initially signaled that it wanted to keep the Market Street building intact, press reports have since indicated that preserving and upgrading the structure would prove cost prohibitive.
In response, the non-profit group Historic Denver has filed with the City of Denver for a landmark designation for the building. In a statement, John Deffenbaugh, Historic Denver chief executive officer, said “the thoughtful combination of new development and historic places is what sustains the authentic character of our city.”
Deffenbaugh added: “With the necessary love and care, the El Chapultepec building can continue to stand for many more years and serve as a reminder of the legendary venue and of the performers who played there.”
The Monfort Company has said that it would like to see the building of an open-air patio where the El Chapultepic building currently stands, bordered by waist-high planters, with additional roof space that will overlook the Market Street block.
Two neon signs advertising the club will be preserved and used again as part of the new development.
By Garry Boulard
