One of the tallest and oldest skyscrapers in downtown Denver may soon be seeing a new life as housing and office space for the University of Colorado.
Built in 1972 and located at 1050 17th Street, the 25-story Independence Plaza was originally called the Prudential Plaza and is part of a complex of structures encompassing an entire square block.
Bordered by 17th Street, Curtis Street, Arapahoe Street and the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall, the white marble building is regarded as an example of Denver’s mid-twentieth century modernism and was designed by the internationally known Minoru Yamasaki & Associates Architects.
Designated as a Class A building, the structure houses just over 617,600 square feet and saw significant renovation work in 2018.
In recent years the Independence Plaza, like many Denver high rises, has experienced an increasing vacancy rate. According to various sources, the structure was more than 75% empty as of early this year.
But that problem may be overcome should a potential deal between the University of Colorado and the building’s current owners become reality.
Last week it was announced that the University of Colorado Foundation had entered a contract to purchase the building, which last sold for around $144 million nearly a decade ago, for future use.
In a statement Jack Finlaw, chief executive officer of the Foundation, said the group was “currently doing due diligence on the potential purchase of Independence Plaza.”
“We carefully evaluate strategic opportunities that strengthen the university’s longterm success and its ability to serve students, communities, and the state,” continued Finlaw. “This is one such opportunity.”
The grand opening of the building in the summer of 1972 including an outdoor concert, raffle gifts, and young women, according to the Colorado Springs Gazette Telegraph, passing out “14,000 roses in a 12-block area” adjacent to the structure.
May 26, 2026
By Garry Boulard
Photo courtesy of Loopnet
