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Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge: Student Teams & Proposals

On the evening of April 30, 2025, MBA student teams from the University of Denver and the University of Colorado completed in the 23rd Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge, presented by Land Title Guarantee Company and NAIOP Colorado. The Challenge featured the redevelopment of the historic 15.6-acre Thornton Shopping Center site. 

Celebrate the future of commercial real estate with a closer look at this year's Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge. Below you'll find team bios, downloadable resumes, and development proposals from the next generation of real estate leaders.

 

COMPETING UNIVERSITIES:
 
           

Winning Team - University of Denver

Team Name: Bluejay Development
Project: Thornton Gateway
School: Daniels College of Business, University of Denver

Overview:
A transformative, phased redevelopment strategy designed to catalyze South Thornton through residential, retail, wellness, and community-driven uses.

View the Proposal Executive Summary: Click Here for the Thornton Gateway Executive Summary.

Meet the Team:

Runner-Up – University of Colorado Boulder

Team Name: Three Peaks Collective
Project: Miller’s Market
School: Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder

Overview:
A place-based mixed-use vision that prioritizes community gathering, diverse housing, and year-round activation centered around a central public plaza.

View the Proposal Executive Summary: Click Here for the Miller's Market Executive Summary

Meet the Team:

Additional CU Boulder Teams

NAIOP also proudly recognizes the creativity and dedication of the following internal teams from CU Boulder who participated in this year’s Challenge.

Team Name: Elevate Development Group
Project: The Vista
School: Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder

Overview: 
The Vista proposes a vibrant, main-street-style mixed-use district featuring attainable housing, locally inspired retail, and nearly six acres of open space. Anchored by a civic plaza and sustainability-focused design, the plan emphasizes walkability, community art, and cultural activation to reinvigorate South Thornton.

View the Proposal Executive Summary: Click Here for The Vista Executive Summary

Meet the Team:

Team Name: LYNX
Project: The Range at Thornton
School: Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder

Overview: 
The Range at Thornton envisions a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly destination rooted in local food culture and agricultural heritage. Centered around a greenhouse-anchored public plaza, the development blends housing, retail, and workspace to create a modern community hub where commerce, culture, and connectivity thrive.

View the Proposal Executive Summary: Click Here for The Range at Thornton Executive Summary.

Meet the Team: