 1991 – 2002
 Colorado Historical Society begins exploring major facility expansion and upgrades to its existing building in accordance with the Venturi Scott and Brown Civic Center Cultural Complex Plan.
2000: CHS conducts competitive search for an architect; Tryba Architects selected. Tryba and Society assess current and future organizational, programmatic and museum needs in “Vision 2000”.
2002: Museum facility expansion begins but halted due to rescinded capital construction funds.
2005
Urban Land Institute (ULI) study concludes that Judicial/Heritage Complex, which houses the Colorado History Museum and the Colorado Judicial Branch, is wholly inadequate to fit needs of both organizations.
The ULI study found the complex to be undersized and poorly designed, with life-safety code and ADA issues, and in need of millions of dollars in deferred maintenance.
Study finds two organizations missions incompatible to live on the same block–Judicial requiring “a place of dignity and slightly removed,” with security around its perimeter, and Colorado History Museum an “educational place that is fun and accessible.”
ULI recommends relocating museum to another area within the Civic Center/Golden Triangle Museum District in proximity to other cultural institutions but within the governmental and cultural center of the city.
2006 – 2007
Trammell Crow retained as the project manager for Colorado History Museum and Judicial Departments building projects.
Colorado General Assembly approves a feasibility study to explore the construction of two new buildings.
Eight potential sites, including three historic buildings, evaluated. Three considered most viable.
CHS and City of Denver begin public discussion regarding potential Civic Center Park site.
2008
Colorado Historical Society board of directors votes to reject the City’s counterproposal for the Civic Center site.
Colorado Historical Society renews review of previously searched sites and identifies 12th and Lincoln in Denver as its preferred location.
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