Denver businessman Don Sturm has formed a real estate firm to manage some of his current holdings and find new development opportunities.

The company, called Sturm -Realty Group, will oversee 350,000 square feet of office and retail space in Cherry Creek North. It also will help Sturm's American National Bank expand.

Sturm Realty Group will "pursue new acquisitions and developments" both in the Denver area and outside Colorado.

The move could help speed redevelopment of Sturm's holdings in Cherry Creek North, which include the former Tattered Cover building, said Julie Bender, CEO of the area's Business Improvement District.

"I think Mr. Sturm wants to reinvest in Cherry Creek North, and I think this will help with that," Bender said.

Evan Kline, of Frederick Ross Co., will serve as president.

"This is a great opportunity for me to work with Don Sturm and to capitalize on my experience," Kline said.

walshc@RockyMountainNews.com or 303-954-2744