Denver developer Sandy Metzel is planning to build a$45-million, 354-unit complex and retail center on about 28-1/2acres, which he optioned for $2.2 million with the CatholicFoundation of the Archdiocese. The property is situated at thesoutheast corner of Sable Boulevard and East Colfax near theUniversity of Colorado Health Science Center project that willcreate one of the nation's largest biotechnology research centers.The land had been donated to the archdiocese with the stipulationthat any proceeds from a sale are used to aid poor and needychildren.

Metzel is seeking council's permission to alter the businesszoning to allow heavy commercial uses. He also plans to spend about$500,000 to improve the Granby Ditch spillway, used for floodcontrol, and develop a cooperative effort with the nearby SuperKmart and other local businesses to install a new traffic light andmake street improvements, estimated to cost $150,000.

Despite all of the pluses to his development, Metzel, principalof SKM Management Co., worries about tonight's vote since thecity's planning commission rejected the rezoning on a 3-2 vote Aug.23. Residents had argued the apartment complex--where average rentswould top $1,000 a month--is incompatible with the neighborhood,too dense and could bring crime to the neighborhood.