Denver City & Subdivision Information

Arvada, Colorado is located near Denver within close proximity to Denver International Airport, the Downtown Denver business district, and mountain communities. It is accessible via three interstate highways I-70, I-76 and I-25. Arvada residents enjoy beautiful views of mountains, lakes, and valleys with easy access to mountain recreation and activities. Arvada is also known for its quality parks and trail systems which link downtown Denver to the foothills.

Arvada still maintains its cherished hometown feel. From the rich historical culture to the shared community pride, Arvada combines the comforts of today's society with the best of the past. Quiet neighborhoods, a diverse business mix, and the restoration of historic landmarks keep this metro enclave vibrant and healthy.

Even with its strong historical roots, Arvada is known to be one of the most progressive cities in the Denver Metro area. With an estimated 103,400 population, Arvada enjoys a strong civic leadership that understands, values, and supports a positive business climate while balancing quality of life and community growth.

Aurora:

The City of Aurora is just to the east of Denver and is in both Adams and Arapahoe Counties. Aurora has homes for every price range and type...from condos & town homes to single family and acreages. Aurora Public Schools and Cherry Creek Schools both serve the Aurora area and Cherry Creek School District has received much acclaim over the last 10 years. Travel and commuting from Aurora is easy with I-70 on the northern end, E-470 toll way along the east side and Colfax running all the way across the city into Denver and beyond. Both E-470 and Pena Boulevard offer access to DIA and make it an easy trip from anywhere in the city.

• Founded in 1891, the city of Aurora was originally named Fletcher by its founder, former Chicago resident Donald Fletcher.
• In 1907, the town changed its name to Aurora.
• In 1942, the Army Air Corps built Buckley Field, enhancing the military presence in Aurora. This, coupled with the addition of Lowry Field, resulted in more employment, residents and money for the city.
• In 1947, Buckley Field was renamed Naval Air Station.
• By 1960, Aurora had 50,000 residents. The Naval Air Station is renamed Buckley Air National Guard Base.
• The 1990s ushered in economic prosperity. However, closures of the military bases, which began with the closure of nearby Lowry Air Force Base, threatened the city's well being.
• In 2000, Aurora’s population had increased to 292,393 residents.
• In 1995, the U.S. Congress targets Fitzsimons for closure. That same year, officials with the City of Aurora, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and the University of Colorado Hospital present the U.S. Department of Defense with a plan to reuse the decommissioned base as a world-class medical campus. The Fitzsimons Redevelopment Authority is formed through an intergovernmental agreement.
• In 2000, Buckley Air National Guard Base re-designated as Buckley Air Force Base.
• By October 2004, the 1-square-mile life sciences city at Fitzsimons is home to the University of Colorado Hospital and Health Sciences Center, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute, the Nighthorse Campbell Native Health Building, Research Complex I and Colorado Bioscience Park Aurora, with more to come.

Belcaro & Bonnie Brae:

Boundaries:
North - Exposition Avenue
South - Mississippi Avenue
East - Colorado Boulevard
West - University

The Belcaro neighborhood, surrounding the Phipps mansion, offers lovely ranch-style homes with large lots. Recently, custom builders have started scraping or adding-on to these ranch homes and building larger custom homes or additions. With its close proximity to Cherry Creek, Washington Park and downtown, it is an area that people desire. Prices in this neighborhood are significantly above the average in Denver.

Right next to Belcaro is the small and very popular neighborhood of Bonnie Brae. It was designed to resemble a Scottish village complete with curving streets, a circular central park and a winding boulevard. Home styles include Cape Cods, Tudors, Ranch-styles and custom and prices are above the average for the city of Denver.

Brighton:

Brighton is located just 20 miles northeast of downtown Denver on the edge of the eastern Colorado plains. Boasting a small town atmosphere and rich cultural and historic roots makes Brighton an ideal place to live, work and play. Brighton's continued growth is assured with it's now easy access to the E-470 toll road which connects I-25 to the north and I-70 to the south. This new freeway will bring distant Brighton even closer to Denver.

Housing opportunities range from Planned Communities to custom homes on acreage. The terrain is rolling plains; a home on top of a hill will have an awesome view of the front range of the Rocky mountains.

Broomfield:

Broomfield sits just northwest of Denver, on the way to Boulder. Broomfield offers many attractions...it is just minutes from the foothills, beautiful views from many areas of the city, many parks and lakes, close proximity to the growing tech center of Boulder and a limit on the number of new homes being built each year. Because of this, Broomfield has seen a rise in home prices and fewer homes are on the market.

The Broomfield city council voted unanimously to limit to 300 the number of new homes that may be built each year in their city limits. This has had both a positive and negative effect on residents as prices have increased, but availability of affordable homes had decreased.

The City and County of Broomfield, has seen rapid growth. Between 2001 and 2002 the county jumped 7% giving it the status of the 7th fastest growing county in the country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau estimates. This is one of the major reasons the city council voted to limit the number of new homes being built.

Boulder:

• Founded: 1858
• Elevation: 5,340 ft.
• City of Boulder Population: 96,727
• Boulder County Population: 291,288

Boulder has earned a well-deserved reputation for a great quality of life. From a dynamic arts community to the many cultural events offered throughout the year, to the educational endeavors taking place at The University of Colorado and in our public schools, Boulder sets and maintains a high standard of living.

In Boulder, the entrepreneurial spirit lives on. Once known mostly for its think tanks and scientific achievements, Boulder is also now home to start-up companies, internet companies, and venture capitalists. Boulder’s dynamic economy is supported by computer, aerospace, scientific, and research firms.

Hiking, biking, running, rollerblading, skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, rock climbing, canoeing, back-county trekking. Whatever your sport or hobby, Boulder offers a season and a place to enjoy the great outdoors.

After seeing Boulder's population double in the 1960's, the citizens decided to maintain the city's small town charm by instituting a unique growth plan that limits growth to 2% a year. Prices are higher than average for the Denver Metro area.

Capitol Hill:

• General boundaries: Colfax Avenue, York Street, 7th Avenue, Lincoln
• Population: 24,460

Today, many of those mansions still stand, but the neighborhood has evolved into a mixed-use community with a majority of apartments and condominiums. After serious population declines in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, Capitol Hill has enjoyed population increases during the past five years, and some estimates call for 3,000 more new residents in the next 3 years.

Capitol Hill also features several small commercial and retail districts that are pedestrian friendly. One of the city's most compact and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, Capitol Hill residents walk to coffee shops, hardware stores, grocery stores, restaurants and other gathering places at 9th and Corona Street, 11th and Ogden Street, and along the 14th Avenue corridor. Capitol Hill's landmark park is Cheesman Park, and Downtown's Civic Center Park is also close by.

Castle Rock:

Located midway between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock occupies 33 square miles, it is the home to the Outlets at Castle Rock, and is the seat of Douglas County.

The Town lies at an elevation of 6,202 feet, in the Plum Creek Valley along Interstate 25 at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The climate is known to be one of the best in the nation with more than 300 days of sunshine, clear blue skies and less than 15 inches of precipitation each year.

Incorporated in 1881, Castle Rock offers a charming historic downtown, along with great amenities and excellent housing.

Centennial:

Residents voted to incorporate the City of Centennial on September 12, 2000 and elected its first officials on February 6, 2001. Centennial officially became a city on February 7, 2001. The quest for a new city took almost two and half years. The campaign included victories in the state legislature and state Supreme Court. Formation of the new city was approved by a 77 percent margin in the incorporation election. It was the largest city incorporation in U.S. history.

The City of Centennial is what is known as a mayor-council style statutory city. This classification, in contrast to a home-rule city, limits the authority that the city exercises, primarily in the area of taxes and tax collection.

Centennial is located in the southern Denver metropolitan area, entirely within Arapahoe County. Centennial is adjacent to the cities and towns of Aurora, Englewood, Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch (unincorporated Douglas County), Littleton, Lone Tree, and Parker. Centennial encompasses 27.9 square miles, or 17,832 acres. With approximately 103,000 residents and 36,200 households, Centennial is the fourth largest city in the Denver Metro Area.

Two public school districts serve Centennial residents: Littleton Public Schools and Cherry Creek School District

Home prices vary greatly in this new city since it incorporated such a wide area, but you can find very reasonably priced homes to high-end luxury homes within the city boundaries.

Cheesman Park:

This park, which once served as a Denver cemetery in the late 1800s, features a west facing marble acropolis that offers incredible mountain views and opens onto the beautiful grounds of the park, which includes the Botanic Gardens. A large open lawn comprises the mid-section of this neighborhood park, making it ideal for lounging, walking the dog, or soaking up one of Colorado's 300 days of sun. Runners jam the footpaths that circle the park. A small playground for kids hides in a grove of trees.

This neighborhood includes the area between northbound Josephine, Colfax, 8th Avenue and Corona. Almost exclusively residential, this area is built around the park. It possesses an eclectic architectural blend, and a charming collection of mixed dwellings, and is most easily identified by the beautiful high-rise condominiums that border the park. These offer spectacular views of the city skyline and Front Range and cater to people who want to leave the work of homeownership to the HOA.

Cherry Creek North:

The boundaries of Cherry Creek North are between 6th Avenue, 1st, Colorado Boulevard and York.

In a pleasant, predominantly residential neighborhood 2 miles from downtown, the Cherry Creek shopping district has retail blocks and an enclosed mall. At Milwaukee Street, the granite-and-glass Cherry Creek Shopping Mall holds some of the nation's top retailers. Just north of the Cherry Creek Shopping Mall is the district Cherry Creek North (between 1st and 3rd Aves. from University Blvd. to Steele St., an open-air development of tree-lined streets and shady plazas, with art galleries, specialty shops, and fashionable restaurants..

With spacious single-family dwellings, urban town-homes, and stucco clad homes, this totally renovated residential area is attractively set against the Cherry Creek indoor and outdoor shopping district. Often busy with outdoor festivities, the Saturday Farmer’s Market, Cherry Creek Arts Festival, the Taste of Cherry Creek and the Cherry Creek Sneak Run/Walk give this area a community flavor that visitors adore. It is located just north it’s namesake, Cherry Creek with it’s trail system for walking/biking or running and connects to other trail systems which allow users to virtually ride the whole Denver Metro area if they wish.

It is a pedestrian area where residents tend to dine out often and walk to shopping, movies, the post office and library and almost every type of service that you can imagine. It is one of the most sought-after areas to live in Denver.

Cherry Hills:

• Cherry Hills Village, Colorado is located in Arapahoe County just south of Denver.
• Cherry Hills Village was incorporated as a town in June of 1945.
• In 1966 Cherry Hills Village became a home rule town.
• Cherry Hills Village is a predominantly residential city of 6.5 square miles with a population of about 6,000.

Cherry Hills Village is known for its rural atmosphere and quality of life. Since Cherry Hills was founded, there has been concern for its development. Surrounded by city on every side, Cherry Hills has managed to maintain its rural atmosphere through strict zoning and a strong focus on open space.

Throughout the neighborhood is an extensive trail system connecting to adjacent areas. Residents can enjoy the outdoors on foot, horse or bicycle. This trail system is free of motorized vehicles and a source of true joy for all. There are no commercial areas in Cherry Hills Village, but anything a person could want can be bought nearby. Cherry Hills Village is an exclusive, high-end neighborhood of beautiful homes.

City Park Subdivision:

City Park officially includes the area between 23rd, Colfax, Colorado and York. This area is named after Denver’s largest park, City Park, which offers 12 tennis courts, an 18-hole public golf course, five fountains, an interactive water-play feature, several flower gardens, five ball fields, six handball courts, seven soccer fields, several historical structures and spans a massive 370 acres.

Downtown is just a short commute and this area is amidst several city bus routes. While architectural styles vary, it is an eclectic mix of old and remodeled homes with prices varying accordingly.

Congress Park:

Boundaries:
East - Colorado Boulevard
North - Colfax
West - York
South - 6th Avenue

Congress Park is a popular residential area with a diverse mix of ethnic, age, and income groups. The Congress Park vicinity encompasses Greek Town, a six-block section filled with eclectic festivities and animated diner-type restaurants.

From larger Denver Square Homes and charming Victorians to spacious single-family dwellings and sturdy brick bungalows, there’s a mix of old and new amid the mature trees and manicured lawns of this neighborhood. The community’s namesake, Congress Park, features a child playground and renovated outdoor swimming pool. The Botanic gardens, just across the western border, offers a variety of vegetation and respite with gardening classes, summer concerts and winter holiday events.

Conifer:

Nestled in the foothills of the Colorado Rockies, 15 miles southwest of Denver, it shares a way of life that is special. The explosion of wild flowers each spring and summer carpets the fields and hillsides in multi-colored splendor. Groves of aspen trees, trademarks of the high country, with their brilliant displays of gold and blazing orange, inspire each autumn. Towering forests of blue spruce, pine and fir provide a serene habitat for deer, elk, fox, rabbit, other wildlife and birds that also call Conifer home.

As roads intersect, towns often evolve. That is the case with the towns of Conifer, Pine Junction and Bailey. Also known as the Conifer Corridor. This area is how most people view Colorado should look, tree covered mountains with spectacular views!

Jefferson County school district and Park County school district provide excellent educational facilities for elementary through high school age students. Free bus service is provided for student transportation.

Commerce City:

Commerce City was incorporated in 1952, bringing together the communities of Adams Heights, Derby, DuPont, Irondale and Rose Hill in a new "City Center," which today is the core of a growing community of more than 50 square miles. Commerce City became a home rule city in 1970. The "Northern Range" area of the city provides 43 square miles of growth corridors for business and residential development amid some of Colorado's greatest natural resources, including the Rocky Mountain National Wildlife Refuge, Barr Lake State Park, the Prairie Gateway area, and numerous trails, open spaces and wildlife preserves.

Just eight miles from downtown Denver, 25 miles from the Denver Technology Center and adjacent to Denver International Airport (DIA), Commerce City is uniquely positioned for business success and a place where residents can enjoy vista views of the front range with easy access to many of Denver’s finest offerings.

Country Club:

The Country Club Historic District begins north of the Denver Country Club at 1st Avenue and extends to 4th Avenue, to 6th Avenue along Circle Drive, and from University Boulevard to Downing Street.

William and Arthur Fisher, in collaboration with prominent Boston architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., designed the exclusive Country Club Place subdivision between Franklin and Race Streets in 1909. Architecturally fascinating mansions and grand houses designed for Denver's social and political elite define the 380-home neighborhood.

This incredible collection of architectural masterpieces includes influences from Colonial, French Chateau, Tudor, Santa Fe and Georgian, with remarkable Denver squares, large bungalows and distinct Victorians. This desirable area offers proximity to Cherry Creek, Washington Park and the prestigious Denver Country Club. Country Club remains one of the city's most seemingly untouchable, yet sought-after places of residence.

Denver:

Denver, the capital of Colorado, was established by a party of prospectors on November 22, 1858, after a gold discovery at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River. Town founders named the dusty crossroads for James W. Denver, Governor of Kansas Territory, of which eastern Colorado was then a part. Other gold discoveries sparked a mass migration of some 100,000 in 1859-60, leading the federal government to establish Colorado Territory in 1861.

THE DENVER FACTS GUIDE

Date Founded	November 17, 1858
Date Incorporated	November 7, 1861
Population	554,636
Land Area	154.63 square miles
Elevation	5,280 feet
Average Annual Rainfall	15.4 inches
Average Annual Snowfall	55.4 inches
Average February Temperature	33 degrees F
Average August Temperature	72 degrees F
Average Sunshine Days	300+
Major Industries	Communications, Utilities, Transportation

Although many people think of Denver and then think of snow, the truth is the mountains get most of the snow with occasional storms in the city itself. But even when Denver gets snowstorms, they are over soon and the snow melts within days. That is because we have over 300 days of sunshine a year and is one of the best things about our weather. Denver enjoys all 4 seasons, but none of them are terribly harsh.

Over the past decade Denver has enjoyed a renaissance, adding a world class international airport, DIA, a new Bronco football stadium, Invesco Field at Mile High, baseball park, Coors Field for the Colorado Rockies, a massive entertainment facility and home of the Stanley Cup winning Colorado Avalanche are just of few of the new additions to the city.

Denver Economy

Denver's diverse economy in a variety of industries make a home in Colorado; telecommunications, aerospace, financial services, computer software, biomedical and many other high tech sectors offer employment here. Major employers in Denver include Comcast, Level 3 Communications, Qwest Communications, Lockheed Martin, Xcel Energy and Sun Microsystems.

Denver real estate

The cost of living in Denver is less than most major cities in the U.S. but higher than many. Housing availability is currently very good, with single family homes beginning in the high $100,000 and going up from there. Denver accommodates a variety of lifestyles in homes from lofts, condos, high rises to single family homes.

Downtown Denver:

Also known as the Central Business District, the area between Broadway, Colfax, 20th, and Speer encompasses the real Downtown Denver. This is a place where shiny skyscrapers, tourist attractions and upscale restaurants sit alongside historic landmarks like the State Capitol, the Emily Griffith Opportunity School and the Denver Press Club. This area is also home to the Denver Performing Arts Complex, a string of charming hotels and the 16th street mall. Downtown residents enjoy historically renovated-lofts and condos as their primary dwelling style. Nearby amenities include several athletic clubs, the Denver Public Library, Civic Center Park and the Paramount Theater, all within walking distance.

Englewood:

Englewood like most of the communities in Denver, owe their initial development to the discovery of gold.

Today’s Englewood is a distinct reflection of its colorful history. There is still a focus on transportation, education, and the arts. Developments are rising from the ground to help boost the area’s economy, and Englewood boasts more jobs and businesses per square mile than any other city in the Rocky Mountain region.

Englewood offers an array of arts and entertainment amenities. Englewood’s elected officials have placed an emphasis on art throughout the community, welcoming public art displays and encouraging performances of music, theater, and dance.

Today, recreational amenities abound in Englewood. The community boasts 11 parks, nine athletic fields, an award-winning recreation center, a first-class golf course, one of the most successful senior centers in the region, and the popular Pirates Cove Aquatics Center.

Evergreen:

Nestled in the mountains just outside of Denver, Evergreen is both beautiful and vibrant. Enjoy our mountain parks, hiking, biking, theater, musical entertainment, shopping, senior activities and fabulous dining.

At an elevation of 7,200 feet, our climate offers relief from the hot summers, with temperatures ranging from the high 70's to the low 80's. Winters are surprisingly mild, in the mid 40's to 50 degrees. We enjoy Colorado's sunny days with an average of 296 days of sunshine.

The center of Evergreen is just 45 minutes from downtown Denver, 50 minutes from the Denver Tech Center and 70 minutes from Denver International Airport. And we can't leave out the quick route to ski country of only 60-70 minutes!

Residential Housing and Population Statistics

Demographic Snapshot
	2001	2006
Population	40,602	44,463
Households	15,823	17, 772
Median Age	42.5	43.9
Median Household Income	$81,418	$92,053
Source:CACI Marketing Systems

Golden:

Golden is the county seat of Jefferson County and is on the western edge of the metro area at the base of the foothills. Golden is very proud of its major employer, Adolph Coors Brewery. In fact, Coors offers tours of the brewery that are a lot of fun. Two other major attractions located in Golden are the Colorado School of Mines and Heritage Square which offers an alpine slide and other outdoor attractions.

Golden is easily accessed from the Denver area via several major roadways, including I-70, C-470, US Highway 6 and State Highway 58. Due to the popularity of its location, home prices are higher than average but many offer beautiful views of the city or foothills or both!

Green Valley Ranch:

Green Valley Ranch is conveniently located at Tower Road and 48th Avenue in vibrant Northeast Metro Denver. It’s one of the most commuter-friendly, communities in Denver, with commutes of only 20 minutes to downtown and 10 minutes to DIA. With quick and easy access to I-70, I-225, E-470 and Peña Blvd., GVR also offers easy access to the Denver Tech Center, Aurora and the Front Range.

This newer housing development offers very affordable homes with all the modern conveniences. It also has higher-end homes located around the Pete Dye designed Green Valley Ranch Golf Club.

Greenwood Village:

Fifty years ago, Greenwood Village was a land strewn with farms, dairies, gravel roads, and a population of 500 residents. Today, those rural elements have been preserved with the addition of a developed, dynamic blend of urban and residential areas, and nationally recognized business parks that contribute to the well being of the Village.

• The city was founded in 1950.
• Greenwood Village became a home rule city in 1972. At the same time a parks and recreation department was organized for the benefit of the citizens.
• The eastern section of Greenwood Village houses multiple covenant controlled subdivisions. The western section has much open space and is "almost rural"; either side is flanked by the areas most expensive real estate in south metro Denver.
• The Denver Technological Center is in Greenwood Village, founded in 1968 is the location of hundreds of businesses.

Highland/Sloan’s Lake:

The Highland region originated in 1858 when Denver founder William H. Larimer, Jr., waded across the Platte River to stake out high ground on the bluffs northwest of Denver. Bought and later sold by Reverend Walter M. Potter, the 320-acre area bordered by West 38th Avenue, Zuni Street, West 32nd Avenue and Federal Boulevard became home to many Scottish, German, Italian and English immigrants in the 1890s. Some of Denver's most architecturally diverse buildings exist here.

Along with lingering cultural diversity, you’ll find independent art galleries, book stores, theaters and coffeehouses tucked quietly on residential corners, while Highland Square on 32nd has become a popular neighborhood gathering place, alive with music, shopping, food and dancing. From Highland Garden’s outdoor deck and Bang’s down home, yet urban attitude to Stella’s brunch and Meade Street’s pints, both residents and visitors relish these acclaimed establishments.

Two connected lakes, Cooper and Sloan, comprise Sloan Lake's 177 acres and are a focal point of the Sloan Lake neighborhood, bordered by West 29th Avenue, West 10th Avenue, Federal Boulevard and Sheridan Boulevard. Primarily residential with the majority of homes built in the 1930s, pockets of 1800s structures exist in nearby historic districts, including the eclectic mix of houses on 14th Avenue and Stuart Street. Each unique in design, the 1890 Voorhees House, the 1888 Spangler House, the 1890 Smith House, the 1892 McNulty House and the 1892 Bliss House reflect beautiful architectural styles of the era.

Highlands Ranch:

Highlands Ranch is one of the newer areas in metro area (build-out started in the 80’s) and is home to one of the largest Home Owner Associations in the country. With over 28,000 homes, 19 parks and 2.000 acres of natural open space it is a desired destination for many people looking to buy a home. It is divided into four main areas; Northridge, Southridge, Eastridge and Westridge. Located at the south end of the metro area, there is something for everyone in Highlands Ranch properties; condominiums, town homes and single family.

Highlands Ranch offers 4 recreation centers for use by its residents and is included in the HOA fees. These centers are large, first-class facilities that offer any and every type of workout equipment, classes, trainers, pools and monthly programs for both children and adults.

The housing market in Highlands Ranch has been very stable and offers every size and price range from a small condominium to a large custom home.

Hilltop & Crestmoor:

Bordered on the north by 6th Avenue, South by Alameda, East by Holly Street and West by Colorado Boulevard. This area offers architectural charm and diversity; the side-by-side neighborhoods of Hilltop and Crestmoor have lovely lawns, larger lots and mature landscaping. The home styles offer an eclectic mix of Tudors, Colonials and Georgians, as well as, many custom homes. Three parks are located with the neighborhoods.

Home buyers love the proximity to downtown Denver and the Cherry Creek shopping area. These are two of the most sought-after areas to live in Denver. Home prices are above average compared to the Denver Metro area.

Ken Caryl Ranch:

Driving to Ken Caryl Ranch one must go through the Dakota Ridge or hogback. The setting of Ken Caryl Ranch was purposefully chosen for peace and tranquility, set apart from the rest of the metroplex.

The neighborhood has amenities including swimming, horseback riding and tennis. Of course hiking the trails along the ridge and seeing the twinkling lights of the Denver skyline is another. There are also indoor recreational facilities with aerobic areas, weights, racquetball courts, pool tables and rooms for private parties.

This planned community has a broad selection of houses in various prices and styles. Custom homes on the North Ranch at Ken Caryl are built on larger lots and many back to open space giving a home owner even more "elbow room.

Lafayette:

Nestled on the high plains of the spectacular Rocky Mountains, Lafayette offers a rich natural environment, popular summer and winter sports, abundant leisure activities, and a variety of superior educational opportunities. Located northwest of Denver, Lafayette offers a diverse housing market, including condos to million-dollar estates. Its proximity is convenient to many high tech firms.

Lakewood:

Located on the western boundaries of Denver, Lakewood is the fourth largest city in Colorado. Only a few minutes drive from the mountains, many neighborhoods have expansive views of the city lights or the inspiring snow-capped Rocky mountains. The largest employer in Lakewood is the Federal Center, a huge complex of federal offices and warehouses. Lakewood gained national recognition for innovations in municipal government when it was named runner-up in the All America City competition in 1970, just one year after the city's incorporation.

Lakewood is nestled between Denver and the foothills. It is a good home choice for people wanting to be "up close" to the mountains, yet convenient to work in the Denver area.

Littleton:

Littleton is the county seat for Arapahoe County which has a population of over 442,000. The city is known for its beautifully restored turn-or-the-century downtown buildings, town Hall Arts Center and the Littleton Historical Museum, the 14 acre site of two living history farms that are fashioned after the lifestyles of Colorado's early-day settlers.

The city has many recreational opportunities. South Platte Park, South Platte River, High Line Canal Trail, Lee Gulch, Arapahoe Greenway and Carson Nature center provide outdoor folks with opportunities to boat, bike, hike swim, skate, golf, ride horses and play baseball, softball and soccer.

There are 26 neighborhood parks, three golf courses, a two-rink enclosed ice arena, two indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a multi-purpose recreation center. In addition, there are over thirty miles of bike trails through residential areas plus almost twenty miles of biking or walking trails along the High Line canal Trail.

Denver's RTD light rail travels through Littleton to Santa Fe and Mineral. This mode of transportation is a favorite with downtown commuters and everyone who wants to make a trip to Denver an easy one.

LoDo (Lower Downtown):

LoDo is the affectionate name that Denverites call the Lower Downtown Historic District and mixed-use neighborhood. LoDo, the city's birthplace, is the most exciting, fun, and trendy part of the city of Denver!

With over 100 restaurants, 30 art galleries, numerous loft developments, clubs and boutiques, the neighborhood bordered by the Platte River, Speer Boulevard, 23rd Street and Lawrence Street has been transformed unlike any other in Denver. Former early frontier town, 1920s Market Street red-light district and 1970s warehouse center, LoDo now epitomizes ideal urban living. Wooden buildings destroyed by fire in 1863 resulted in LoDo's characteristic simple designs with red brick and arched windows. Once a robust transportation hub, stagecoaches carrying gold left the Wells Fargo Depot at 1338 15th Street and Union Station trafficked over 80 trains a day.

Now LoDo is one of the hottest locations to live in with many of the historic buildings being converted to lofts. With Coors Field Baseball Stadium nearby and all the restaurants/bars and Downtown Denver, it has transformed into an area famous for its nightlife and location to almost everything going on in Denver.

Louisville:

The City of Louisville is a Colorado municipality with approximately 19,000 residents. The City, incorporated in 1882, lies in Boulder County roughly six miles east of the City of Boulder and 25 miles northwest of Denver.

• Founded: 1878
• Incorporated: 1882
• Average Elevation: 5,530 feet
• Area of City: 5039 Acres/7.82 square miles
• Days of Sunshine: 275/year
• Inches of Rain: 15.5/year

At this time, the City owns, either alone or in conjunction with other governmental entities, approximately 1700 acres of designated open space. The residential size of the City is not likely to grow significantly as there is little room. Commercial and industrial growth are expected, however, as there is room for both in Centennial Valley and the Colorado Tech Center.

Lone Tree:

Lone Tree is located south of Denver in Douglas County. Less than 20 miles from downtown Denver, it’s a short drive to see major league sporting events and world-class theatrical and musical performances. Denver International Airport (DIA) is less than 25 miles from Lone Tree, providing commuting convenience for business or leisure travelers.

Douglas County features top rated schools, excellent shopping and outstanding recreation opportunities that lure newcomers to the region every year. With 39 million square feet of office space and employment of more than 300,000 people and an economic output of close to 25% of the state’s total, the county attracts small and large businesses including CH2MHill, Invesco and First Data. Park Meadows mall the areas' most successful shopping complex houses favorites including Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Foley's and a large variety of specialty stores.

In a state with more college graduates per capita than any other, Lone Tree residents are among the most highly educated in the state. A family-friendly city, Lone Tree’s average household is 2.74 people with a median household income of $96,303.

Lone Tree neighborhoods are generally considered up-scale. Heritage Estates is a private, gated golf community with prices starting well over $500,000. Other homes in Lone Tree are above area averages and include single family and town homes or condominiums. Lone Tree is a popular choice for business executives desiring convenience and a nice neighborhood to call home.

Lowry:

Once a functional Air Force base, and now truly the talk of the town, Lowry has evolved into a family-friendly, mixed-use urban neighborhood. It is a totally new development with medium to high-end homes being built. Lowry is the recipient of the Governor’s Award for Smart Growth, and now a model for city planning nationwide. It is a suburb in the urban corridor and has been extremely successful.

With its well-tended boulevards, quiet residential streets and central location, Lowry incorporates the best aspects of Denver's great old neighborhoods. But the Lowry Redevelopment Authority is also looking forward - into the needs of future generations. And this is particularly true when it comes to the environment. Old Air Force runways have been recycled into brand new roads; beautiful old trees have been moved rather than cut down; 20,000 new trees have been planted.

Lowry's streets, roundabouts and trails system are designed to reduce car trips - and pollution. Many of Lowry's homes are being built to maximize energy efficiency, minimize pollution and conserve natural resources. And careful land planning and xeriscaping, plus a golf course that incorporates sustainable resource management techniques, will save one of Colorado's most precious resources: water.

Morrison:

Morrison is a small but thriving town whose major industries are tourism and margaritas -- especially in the summer. Visitors come for the restaurants, rocks, and/or rock concerts. They may be passing through on their way to and from the spectacular high peaks to the west, or they may come to Morrison for the day or a whole weekend away from the city, just as they did in Morrison's earliest days.

In Morrison is the famous "Red Rocks" amphitheater built by the town's namesake, George Morrison in 1860. The famous amphitheater began as a stone quarry. The native sandstone is of great quality and much of it was used during the 1900's to build the beautiful red rock homes in Denver. Today as an amphitheater the stage welcomes world famous entertainers and the Colorado Symphony.

Morrison Fun Facts:

• Population 438
• Established 1874
• Incorporated 1906
• National Register Historic District (recognized 1976)
• Elevation 5800 ft or 1768 m

Northglenn:

Northglenn is located directly north of Denver along Interstate 25. With a population of 34,006 residents the City enjoys small friendly neighborhoods with easily accessible schools, convenient dining and shopping opportunities, quality parks, open space, and outdoor recreation facilities. Thirty miles plus of interconnecting Greenway trails gives residents and visitors the opportunity to walk, bicycle, or jog in any direction within the City. There are 160.35 acres of parks and open space areas designated to further enhance the quality of life and well being of residents and visitors.

Its strategic location allows for easy and convenient access to all parts of the Denver metro area, the city of Boulder, Denver International Airport and the Rocky Mountains. As such, it is the hub of the thriving north metro area.

Observatory Park:

Bordered by I-25 on the north, Yale on the south, Colorado on the east and University on the west, Observatory Park enjoys all the convenience of Denver University’s college campus, while retaining the lovely setting of an upscale Denver neighborhood. Mansions are located on wide streets and the mature-tree-lined Observatory Park, named for the Chamberlin Observatory sits in the middle of it all. Primarily residential, Observatory Park has direct access to I-25 and has seen significant redevelopment within its borders. Many homes have been totally renovated or scraped off and replaced with new, larger homes. Home prices in the area have been rising as redevelopment has taken place.

Park Hill:

Three miles from the Central Business District and primarily residential, Denver's Park Hill neighborhood begins just east of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science on Colorado Boulevard to Quebec Street and from Colfax Avenue to as far north as 52nd Avenue. Montview Boulevard, developed in 1882, and Monaco Parkway are main thoroughfares and typify the wide, tree-lined neighborhood streets. Park Hill's nationally recognized neighborhood organization sponsors an annual tour of the many historic homes in this welcoming community. Homes styles are eclectic from mansions to quaint bungalows and offer opportunities for every style and price range. Because of its close proximity to Downtown and other major shopping/restaurant areas, Park Hill has become a popular residential location.

Parker:

The Town of Parker was incorporated in 1981 and included the Rowley Downs subdivision, the downtown area, and Parker Square and Parker Plaza commercial areas. The incorporated area encompassed approximately one square mile and included 285 residents. Soon after incorporation in 1981, the Town adopted zoning and subdivision ordinances.

The first decade of the Town's history saw the Town increased from one square mile to 13 square miles. The Town's population has increased from less than 300 at incorporation to more than 40,000 currently.

Parker has become a popular destination for these folks who want to live in an area that offers room to grow. The Main Street is charming with its funky shops and little restaurants and retains the feel of the small town that it is. The city and rural areas of Parker have seen significant growth through new housing developments and commercial infiltration. It is still a community where you will drive by western tack stores but today these stores may be located next to a Starbuck’s! It is the perfect destination for people who want beautiful Front Range vistas and small-town feel while having all the modern-day conveniences.

Roxborough Park:

Living in this beautiful area is a special treat. It is located in the southwest suburbs of Denver and is next to Roxborough State Park. This National Park is a spectacular red-rock area known for its tranquil setting and wildlife viewing opportunities. Roxborough is one of the most dramatic and beautiful parks in the state. More than 1.2 billion years of geologic time are represented by the spectacular rock formations found within the park.

Homes here range from tract type developments to custom homes overlooking one of the spectacular holes of Arrowhead Golf Club...one of the premier golf courses in the United States. Every hole is a natural wonder with the 10th fairway boasting a fantastic look at huge Red Rocks jutting up at an angle. Even if you don’t golf you should come and enjoy a meal in the clubhouse and look out at what Mother Nature has beautifully produced.

Home prices in this area are typically a little higher than other suburbs, but if you want to be close to natural wonders and lots of trails for hiking, walking or biking, it is worth it.

Stapleton:

Once the location of Stapleton Airport, the major airport serving Denver and the Front Range, Stapleton subdivision is now a totally new housing development. With its easy access to I-70 and Downtown, many Denverites looking for new homes in an urban setting have flocked to buy in this new area.

Stapleton offers house facades that feature a front porch (the garage is accessed from the rear alley), smaller lots with public open space as gathering places, sidewalks with tree lawns to encourage pedestrian activity, village shops and restaurants within walking distance of most residences), workplaces and cultural venues close to housing. It brings back the feel of older communities but in homes with all the modern conveniences.

By spring of 2004, over 1,000 homes were occupied by an estimated 2,500 new Stapleton residents. The Stapleton Project is one that will be growing for years as the long term plan is to totally redevelop all of the original Stapleton Airport area including the runway areas north of I-70.

Thornton:

Located approximately 10 miles north of downtown Denver, the community's location adjacent to Interstate 25 provides an excellent high visibility area for business while still providing easy access to various transportation routes. In addition, as the east most suburb of the North Denver area, Thornton is located closer to the Denver International Airport than virtually any other point in the metropolitan area.

Thornton is served primarily by two school districts encompassing four high schools, five middle schools and fourteen elementary schools.

Thornton has aggressively pursued recreation programs with nearly 1,000 acres of land developed or designated for public parks. The numerous lighted tennis courts, athletic fields, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, recreation centers and gymnasiums offer recreation opportunities for people of all ages and activity levels.

With lots of home building and development, Thornton offers a wide range of home prices and styles and is an easy commute to Downtown Denver.

Washington Park:

Built in 1899, the 162-acre Washington Park, with Smith and Grasmere lakes each ending the long grassy meadow, is a local recreational haven. The three-story red brick 1926 South High School, complete with griffins perched on its roof, overlooks Washington Park from the southeast corner. From I-25 to Cherry Creek and from University Boulevard to Downing Street, the neighborhood is rich with entertainment, like the cluster of small shops and restaurants on South Gaylord and South Pearl Streets.

Wash Park, as it’s called, is a highly sought ought area to live in. Residents love all the outdoor activities located at the Park and the fact that it is centrally located to anything in Denver makes it a commuter’s paradise. Home prices in this area tend to be higher than average due to its popularity and location.

Westminster:

Westminster is a growing suburban community that offers a wide choice of housing, excellent schools, and public facilities. The best features in Westminster include the hundreds of recreational activities. With direct access to major highways, Westminster's central location between Denver and Boulder puts it within easy reach of major business centers, retail centers, and a variety of entertainment and recreational facilities. Activities in Denver or Boulder are a 20 minute drive in either direction and the drive from Westminster to Denver International Airport takes approximately 30 minutes.

The motto of Westminster is “Delivering Exceptional Value and Quality of Life”. With this as your motto, you know you have a community that is focused on the best for its citizens...maybe that is why so many people in the Denver area love calling Westminster home.

Wheat Ridge:

The City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado is a community of 30,000 people in Jefferson County, just west of Denver. The city is served by Interstate highway I-70, as it curves toward the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Primarily a residential city, Wheat Ridge also has five retail centers, several unique small industries, an Enterprise Zone and more than 20 parks, equestrian trails and open space. Incorporated as a city in 1970, its pioneer history stretches back to the early farmers and miners of the 1840's.

Home prices are reasonable in this area and many people love the proximity to the Mountains and easy access to all they have to offer

The Nichols Team, LLC
Real Estate Agents Denver Colorado

Steve & Annette
Owners/Brokers
303-316-0166 Office
303-322-3507 Fax