DENVER-The metro area is holding its own in the commercial real estate arena despite a 19% drop in deals and a 22% decline in sales volume. The year 2000 still is being considered as solid by one market watcher.

ASPEN, CO-Residents and environmental groups have successfully pulled the plug on a $1.5-million visitors' center planned for the base of the Maroon Bells. The US Forest Service, caving in to pressure, will take its idea to the Highlands ski area.

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO-Stageco US has made the Super Bowl XXXV team, second-string quarterbacking construction for 25 entertainment buildings. Stageco is the subcontractor for Party Planners West of Los Angeles.

DENVER-Two local investors are on the right track to take over a 31-story, 460,000-sf tower that's been standing empty for three years. DHG Finance has kicked in $13.6 million to buy out Starwood Hotels & Resorts' interest.

DENVER-The banking business is thriving in Denver, where three major banks have 12 branch offices on the drawing boards for suburban expansions. Wells Fargo & Co. has its sights on nine new offices for the region.

DENVER-Rapid growth comes with its headaches, say Douglas County business leaders and developers. The county is being ranked second nationwide for its growth prospects, but the effects are straining schools and housing.

DENVER-Minute Spot LLC and Hope Communities Inc. are teaming for a near $12.3-million project in the city's most economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. The project will bring affordable housing and 16,000 sf of commercial space.

DENVER-CMC Commercial Realty Group is laying the groundwork for a 177,136-sf office flex project in Inverness. The Dallas-based group has snatched up the last of the park's available flex space for the $17.7-million undertaking.