Sustainable landscaping Wheat Ridge

Sustainable landscaping Wheat Ridge

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Benefits of Sustainable Landscaping in Wheat Ridge


Sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge offers a whole bunch of benefits that are hard to ignore! First off, it's super eco-friendly. By using native plants and organic materials, homeowners can create beautiful gardens that don't require tons of water or chemical fertilizers. I mean, who wants to spend their weekends spraying pesticides when you can have a lovely, thriving landscape that takes care of itself, right?


Another great thing about sustainable landscaping is that it supports local wildlife. Birds, bees, and butterflies love native plants, and by planting them, you're helping to create a habitat for these creatures. It's not just about making your yard look good; it's about contributing to the ecosystem. Plus, it's a fantastic way to teach kids about nature and the importance of preserving it!


Cost savings are also a big deal. While some folks might think that sustainable landscaping costs more upfront, it actually saves money in the long run. Lower water bills, reduced maintenance costs, and fewer expenses on chemicals mean that you'll be saving cash! Who doesn't love that?


And let's not forget about the aesthetic appeal. Sustainable landscapes can be just as beautiful as traditional ones, if not more so! With a little creativity, you can design a space that reflects your personality while being kind to the environment. There's something truly satisfying about knowing your garden is both stunning and sustainable.


In conclusion, the benefits of sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge are many and varied. From supporting local wildlife to saving money and enhancing beauty, its clear that going green is the way to go. So, if you haven't considered it yet, it's time to think about making the switch! You won't regret it.

Native Plants and Their Importance


Native plants are really important for sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge! These plants, which are originally from the area, offer a whole bunch of benefits that non-native species just can't compete with. First off, they're perfectly adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, so they require way less water and maintenance. You won't need to worry about constantly watering or using fertilizers that can harm the environment.


Another great thing about native plants is that they support local wildlife. Birds, bees, and butterflies rely on these plants for food and habitat. It's not just about making your yard look pretty; it's about creating a thriving ecosystem right in your backyard. Plus, you won't be contributing to the spread of invasive species, which can choke out local flora and fauna (and we definitely don't want that!).


Planting native species also means you're doing your part for sustainability. They help reduce soil erosion, improve air quality, and even store carbon, which is something we really need to be thinking about in today's world. So, if you're considering landscaping options, why not choose plants that are already thriving in Wheat Ridge?


In conclusion, native plants are not just beautiful; they're essential for a sustainable landscape. They save water, support local wildlife, and contribute to a healthier environment. So, next time you think about planting, remember the value of going native!

Water Conservation Techniques


Water Conservation Techniques for Sustainable Landscaping in Wheat Ridge


Okay, so, sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, is, like, a really big deal, especially when it comes to using water wisely. Were talking serious water conservation techniques here! It aint just about letting your lawn go brown, yknow?


Theres xeriscaping, for starters. This basically means designing your yard with plants that dont need much water.

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Think native grasses, drought-tolerant shrubs, and maybe even some cool-looking rocks! You dont have to stick with just cacti either, there are tons of beautiful options that thrive in our climate.


And then, theres irrigation. Drip irrigation and soaker hoses are total game changers. They deliver water directly to the plant roots, instead of, you know, spraying it all over the place (where it can evaporate!)! Plus, investing in a smart sprinkler controller is a no-brainer. These things use weather data to adjust watering schedules automatically, so you arent watering when it rains!


Mulch is also your friend. Seriously. A good layer of mulch around your plants helps retain moisture in the soil, which means you dont have to water as often. (It also helps suppress weeds, which is a bonus!)


Finally, dont ignore the importance of soil health. Healthy soil holds water better. Amend your soil with compost and other organic matter to improve its water-holding capacity. You wouldnt neglect your cars engine, would you?!


Implementing these techniques doesnt mean your yard has to be boring. You can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape thats both water-wise and aesthetically pleasing. And hey, youll be doing your part to conserve water in Wheat Ridge. Isnt that awesome?!

Soil Health and Organic Practices



Okay, the user wants me to write a short essay on Soil Health and Organic Practices for Sustainable Landscaping in Wheat Ridge. Best Landscaper Denver Colorado. Let me start by understanding the key points they need. They specified to make it sound human-like, so I should avoid formal language. Also, they want grammatical errors, contractions, some parentheses, an exclamation mark, use of negation, avoid repetition, and interjections. No markdown or HTML.

First, I need to outline the main ideas. Soil health is crucial for sustainable landscaping. Organic practices like composting, mulching, avoiding synthetic chemicals. Maybe mention specific examples in Wheat Ridge. I should check if Wheat Ridge has any particular initiatives or challenges related to this. Not sure, but perhaps I can generalize.

Now, how to add contractions? Use dont, cant, its, etc. Grammatical errors could be things like subject-verb agreement issues, missing commas, or incorrect prepositions. But not too many to make it hard to read. Parentheses can add extra info. An exclamation mark might be in a place where someone is enthusiastic, like Wow, the results can be amazing!

Negation: Maybe phrases like dont rely on synthetic fertilizers or its not just about.... Avoid repetition by varying the vocabulary. Use interjections like Oh, or Hey, to make it more conversational.

Let me start the essay. Maybe start with a hook about the importance of soil. Then introduce Wheat Ridge. Mention practices, explain benefits. Add some parentheses for asides. Make sure to include the exclamation. Check for contractions and negations. Let me draft a sample.

Wait, the user said to add grammatical errors, but not too many. Need to balance. Maybe mix a few errors with correct sentences. Also, avoid technical jargon. Use simple terms. Maybe mention local community efforts or something relatable.

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Okay, let me put it all together now, keeping the structure in mind and the specific requirements.

Soil health in Wheat Ridge ain't just a buzzword-it's the backbone of sustainable landscaping, right? I mean, who wants to see their garden wilt while the neighborhood thrives? Organic practices, like composting or mulching, do more than just look pretty; they actually feed the soil instead of stripping it bare. Oh, and let's not forget those pesky chemicals! Yeah, synthetic fertilizers might work fast, but over time, they wreck the balance (talk about a false friend).


Now, some folks might argue, “Why bother?” Well, healthy soil retains water better, cuts erosion down, and even fights pests-no poisons needed! Plus, when you plant native species, you're not just helping the environment; you're saving time and cash. I've seen it myself-yards that ditched the chemicals and went organic bloomed like crazy!


But here's the kicker: it ain't easy. You've got to be patient, track what works, and sometimes admit when you're wrong. Yeah, I tried planting a veggie patch last spring without amending the soil first. Let's just say, it was a disaster! (Who knew clay could be so stubborn?) Still, the payoff's worth it. With a little effort, Wheat Ridge can show how green spaces thrive without shortcuts.


So, let's swap the sprays for compost heaps, the plastic for mulch piles, and the “quick fix” mindset for real care. After all, a healthy yard doesn't just look good-it feels good, doesn't it?

Creating Wildlife Habitats


Sustainable landscaping aint just about pretty lawns and perfectly manicured hedges, yknow? (Though, those are nice, I guess). In places like Wheat Ridge, Colorado, its really about creating wildlife habitats, and thats where things get interesting. Its about thinking like a bird, a bee, or even a little field mouse!


We shouldnt not consider the critters that share our spaces. Think about it: native plants offer food and shelter that non-native species simply cant, or dont, provide. Plant a bunch of those. (Like, seriously, a bunch!). By choosing the right trees, shrubs, and flowers, were essentially building little wildlife restaurants and apartment complexes!


And its not only about plants. Water features are crucial. A simple birdbath or a small pond can make a huge difference, especially in our drier climate. Rocks and logs? Oh, theyre like little bug hotels, providing shelter and nesting sites. We can't negate the importance of these little details, can we?


The best part? A wildlife-friendly landscape is often lower maintenance in the long run, since native species are adapted to our area. Less watering! Less fertilizing! Less mowing! Its a win-win, I tell ya! Its not that hard, is it?!


So, next time youre thinking about your yard, dont just think about curb appeal. Think about creating a haven for the creatures that call Wheat Ridge home. You wont regret it!

Sustainable Lawn Alternatives


Sustainable Lawn Alternatives for Wheat Ridge


Okay, so youre thinkin bout ditchin that thirsty, high-maintenance lawn in Wheat Ridge? Good for you! Traditional lawns, theyre not exactly eco-friendly, are they. All that waterin, fertilizin, and mowin – its a real drag on resources, yknow.


But whats the alternative? Well, theres loads! Think beyond just grass! Groundcovers are an excellent option. Creeping thyme, for example, it smells great when you walk on it and doesnt need constant trimming. Clovers another smart choice; it fixes nitrogen in the soil, reducin the need for fertilizers (which is a plus, right?). Plus, bees love it!


You shouldnt neglect the possibility of incorporating native plants. These are plants that naturally thrive in Wheat Ridges climate, which means theyll need less water and less fuss overall. Consider things like buffalo grass or blue grama. (Theyre super drought-tolerant!)


Xeriscaping, thats definitely something to research. Its basically landscaping with drought-resistant plants, rocks, and mulch. It doesnt have to be a desert-like wasteland, either! You could create a beautiful, colorful, and really cool garden that requires minimal water(!).


Dont get me wrong, changin your lawn isnt somethin you can just do overnight.

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It requires planning and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of elbow grease. But the benefits, they are totally worth it. Youll save water, reduce pollution, and create a habitat for wildlife. Plus, youll have a lawn thats unique and reflects your commitment to a greener Wheat Ridge. Whats not to love?

Community Involvement and Education


Sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge is not just about planting pretty flowers or maintaining nice lawns; it's a whole community effort! One of the key elements that can't be overlooked is community involvement and education. When folks in the area come together to learn about sustainable practices, it really makes a difference in how we care for our environment.


First off, many residents might not realize how important it is to use native plants. These plants are not only beautiful, but they also require less water and are better suited to the local climate. By hosting workshops or information sessions, the community can educate each other on how to choose the right plants for their gardens. It's amazing how a little knowledge can go a long way!


Moreover, there's also the aspect of involving schools in this initiative. Kids, after all, are the future, right? By incorporating sustainable landscaping into school programs, students can learn firsthand about growing their own food and understanding the ecosystem. They can even participate in community garden projects, which not only beautify the area but also teach teamwork and responsibility.


Of course, it's not just about the young ones. Adults, too, can benefit from community gatherings where they share tips and tricks on composting, water conservation, and soil health. It's so much easier to implement these practices when you've got a support system! And lets not forget about the importance of local businesses getting involved. They could sponsor events or provide resources, which would definitely help spread the word.


In conclusion, community involvement and education around sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge can lead to a healthier environment and a more engaged community. It's all about working together and learning from each other. So, let's dig in and cultivate a greener future-not just for us, but for generations to come!

Resources for Sustainable Landscaping in Wheat Ridge


Sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge is becoming more popular (and for good reason!). People are starting to realize that caring for our environment doesn't have to be a chore; it can actually be enjoyable and rewarding. However, many folks might think that going green means giving up on beauty or functionality, which isn't true at all!


There are tons of resources available for those interested in sustainable practices. For instance, the local community center often hosts workshops that teach residents about native plants and water conservation techniques. You definitely don't want to overlook the importance of choosing the right plants! Native species not only thrive in the local climate but also attract beneficial wildlife. Imagine how lovely it'd be to have butterflies and birds visiting your yard!


Furthermore, the city has initiatives aimed at promoting eco-friendly landscaping. They've got grants and programs that support homeowners who want to make the switch to more sustainable options. It's really encouraging to see the community come together to make a difference.


Many people also underestimate the power of mulch! Using organic mulch can help retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for excessive watering. Plus, it looks great! And let's not forget about rain gardens. These are a fantastic way to manage stormwater runoff while creating a beautiful focal point in your yard.


In conclusion, sustainable landscaping in Wheat Ridge isn't just an afterthought; it's an opportunity to enhance our environment. With the right resources and a little creativity, anyone can create a landscape that's both beautiful and sustainable. So, why not give it a shot? You won't regret it!

Littleton is a home policy town city located in Arapahoe region, Colorado, United States. Littleton is the county seat of Arapahoe Area and is a part of the Denver–-- Aurora–-- Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Location. The city population was 45,652 at the 2020 USA demographics, placing as the 20th most populated town in Colorado.

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Commerce City is located in Colorado
Commerce City
Commerce City
Commerce City (Colorado)
Commerce City, Colorado
City of Commerce City
Commerce City Civic Center at 60th Avenue and Trenton Street
Commerce City Civic Center at 60th Avenue and Trenton Street
Flag of Commerce City, Colorado
Location of the City of Commerce City in Adams County, Colorado
Location of the City of Commerce City in Adams County, Colorado
Commerce City is located in the United States
Commerce City
Commerce City
Location of the City of Commerce City, Colorado.

Coordinates: 39°48′30″N 104°56′02″W / 39.8083°N 104.9339°W / 39.8083; -104.9339 (Commerce City, Colorado)[3]CountryUnited StatesStateColoradoCountyZZ[2]Incorporated as townDecember 12, 1952, as Town of Commerce Town[4]Incorporated as city1962 as City of Commerce CityGovernment

 

 • Typehome rule city[1] • MayorSteve DouglasArea

 • Total

36.399 sq mi (94.273 km2) • Land36.002 sq mi (93.246 km2) • Water0.397 sq mi (1.027 km2)Elevation

5,164 ft (1,574 m)Population

 • Total

62,418 • Density1,734/sq mi (670/km2) • Metro

 

2,963,821 (19th) • CSA

 

3,623,560 (17th) • Front Range

 

5,055,344Time zoneUTC−07:00 (MST) • Summer (DST)UTC−06:00 (MDT)ZIP code[6]

80022 & 80037 (PO Box)

Area codes303/720/983GNIS place ID184666GNIS city ID2410212FIPS code08-16495Websitewww.c3gov.com

Commerce City is a home rule city located in Adams County, Colorado, United States.[1] The city population was 62,418 at the 2020 United States census, a 35.95% increase since the 2010 United States census.[5] Commerce City is the 18th most populous municipality in Colorado. Commerce City is located north of Denver and is a part of the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area and the Front Range Urban Corridor.

Commerce City is known for being the home of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge with its only entrance located in the city. Dick's Sporting Goods Park, a premier soccer stadium facility in Commerce City, hosts the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer.

History

[edit]

In 1859 after fighting in Bleeding Kansas, John D. "Colonel Jack" Henderson built a ranch, trading post, and hotel on Henderson Island in the South Platte River in Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory north of Denver, from which he sold meat and provisions to gold seekers on their way up the South Platte River Trail to the gold fields during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. Henderson Island was the first permanent settlement in the South Platte River Valley between Fort Saint Vrain in the Nebraska Territory and the Cherry Creek Diggings in the Kansas Territory. Henderson Island is today the site of the Adams County Regional Park and Fairgrounds.

Among the first establishments in the modern Commerce City were cemeteries. Riverside Cemetery, founded in 1876, is located in the city's southwest corner at East 52nd Avenue and Brighton Boulevard. Rose Hill Cemetery, in the heart of historic Commerce City, was established in 1892 on what at the time was an open plain by the United Hebrew Cemetery Association.

The first school in the area began in 1871 as a one-room schoolhouse, with other schools added in 1899 and later in 1907. This latter school is now part of the North Building at the former site of Adams City High School, now Adams 14 School District Administration Buildings.

Several towns were founded in this part of Adams County in the 19th century. Derby, a Burlington Railroad station in 1887, was laid out as a town in 1889, although it was largely vacated by 1891. Irondale was first settled in 1889, named after a foundry that was opened that year. It was incorporated as the town of Irondale in 1924, but unincorporated in the 1930s due to increasing vacancy. Meanwhile, Adams City was laid out in 1903, with developers hoping the county seat would be established there; however, Brighton was elected county seat in 1904 and Adams City was vacated in 1922.

Until the late 1920s, the area was devoted to agriculture, including wheat fields, dairies, and pig farms. Industry moved in, with a refinery established in 1930 and grain elevators built in the late 1930s. Rocky Mountain Arsenal was founded in 1942 due east of the growing community.

In 1946 and 1947, Adams County School District 14 was formed from surrounding schools, and Adams City was redeveloped about that time. In 1951, as Denver was considering annexing the area, a plan to incorporate all of southern Adams County was developed. In July 1952, area residents voted 251 to 24 to incorporate Commerce Town, comprising neighborhoods such as Rose Hill and southern Adams City. Commerce Town annexed part of Derby in 1962, increasing the population over fourfold, enough for the town to gain the status of a city. The city name was duly changed to Commerce City.[7] In April 2007, the citizens of Commerce City voted more than 2:1 to retain their city's name.[8]

The Mile High Kennel Club, a greyhound racing park founded in 1949, is no longer operational. Purchased by the Commerce City Urban Renewal Authority (CCURA) in 2011, the site is an officially designated urban renewal area, which allows tax increment financing to be used as a funding source for the redevelopment. The CCURA and City Council adopted an updated Master Developer Agreement for the Mile High Greyhound Park in July 2019, and the project broke ground in October 2020.[citation needed]

A new Adams City High School has been constructed on land at 72nd and Quebec streets. This was formerly part of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal. The new school campus opened in 2009.[9]

Geography

[edit]

Commerce City comprises a downtown area, and northern community stretching north of Denver International Airport.[10][11]

At the 2020 United States census, the city had a total area of 23,295 acres (94.273 km2), including 254 acres (1.027 km2) of water.[5]

Climate

[edit]
Climate data for Commerce City, Colorado
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 47
(8)
48
(9)
56
(13)
63
(17)
72
(22)
82
(28)
88
(31)
85
(29)
78
(26)
66
(19)
54
(12)
45
(7)
65.3
(18.5)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 22
(−6)
23
(−5)
29
(−2)
36
(2)
44
(7)
51
(11)
57
(14)
56
(13)
48
(9)
38
(3)
28
(−2)
21
(−6)
37.75
(3.19)
Source: Accuweather[12]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
Census Pop. Note
1960 8,970  
1970 17,407   94.1%
1980 16,234   −6.7%
1990 16,466   1.4%
2000 20,991   27.5%
2010 45,913   118.7%
2020 62,418   35.9%
2024 (est.) 70,245 [13] 12.5%
U.S. Decennial Census

As of the census[14] of 2000, there were 20,991 people, 6,668 households, and 4,974 families residing in the city. The population density was 812.2 inhabitants per square mile (313.6/km2) under the age of 18, 11.5% from 18 to 24, 30.6% from 25 to 44, 18.1% from 45 to 64, and 9.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 111.1 males.

The demographic breakdown of the city shows a composition of 74.15% White, 3.39% African American, 1.23% Native American, 2.46% Asian, 13.15% from other races, and 5.62% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals of any race constitute 46.8% of the total population.

The median income for a household in the city was $69,268 and the median wage in the city was $54,340. The labor force was 28,684 with 31,086 jobs residing within the city. About 15.3% of families and 19.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 22.5% of those under age 18 and 15.1% of those age 65 or over.

 

Economy

[edit]
Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, home of the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise

Commerce City is home to an oil refinery with a capacity of 98,000 barrels per day (15,600 m3/d).[15] Originally, this facility existed as two separately owned refineries, one on each side of Brighton Boulevard.

Suncor Energy bought the west refinery from ConocoPhillips in 2003.[16] A project to upgrade this facility began in August of that year.[17]

Suncor purchased the east refinery from Valero in June 2005 with the eventual goal of combining the two operations.[18] As a result of a lawsuit by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a number of states (including Colorado) alleging violations of the Clean Air Act, Valero agreed in June 2005 to make pollution-reducing changes to its refineries, including the Commerce City facility. Suncor's purchase agreement included an assumption of all liability from this suit.[19]

The west refinery's upgrade project, named "Project Odyssey," was extended to the east refinery. The west plant was shut down in February 2006 to complete the upgrade, while the east plant continued to refine 34,000 barrels (5,400 m3) of oil per day. The completion of the $445 million project was announced in June 2006 and allows Suncor to meet the EPA's mandate to reduce the sulfur content of diesel fuel. It also gives the refinery the ability to process Suncor's Canadian sour crude oil sands. The combined facility is the largest refinery in the Rocky Mountain region.[20]

Parks and recreation

[edit]

The city features 840 acres (340 ha) of parks and open spaces with 25 miles (40 km) of connecting trail system. There are two recreation centers run by the city, and a pool.[21][22]

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is the largest land-based, urban wildlife refuge in the United States, featuring 27 square miles (70 km2) of open lakes, wetlands, and grasslands.[21]

Education

[edit]

Adams County school districts 27J and Adams 14 each include portions of Commerce City.[23][24]

The latter district's comprehensive high school is Adams City High School.

Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]
 

 

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c "Active Colorado Municipalities". Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Retrieved July 26, 2025.
  2. ^ "Colorado Counties". Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Retrieved July 26, 2025.
  3. ^ a b "Commerce City, Colorado". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior. Retrieved July 26, 2025.
  4. ^ "Colorado Municipal Incorporations". State of Colorado, Department of Personnel & Administration, Colorado State Archives. December 1, 2004. Archived from the original on September 27, 2007. Retrieved September 2, 2007.
  5. ^ a b c d "Decennial Census P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data". United States Census Bureau, United States Department of Commerce. August 12, 2021. Retrieved September 7, 2021.
  6. ^ "ZIP Code Lookup". United States Postal Service. Retrieved July 26, 2025.
  7. ^ Wagner, Alvin (1977). "Commerce Town Stops Denver Annexation". Adams County: Crossroads of the West. Vol. II. Brighton, Colorado: Board of Adams County Commissioners. ISBN 0-930952-01-4.
  8. ^ "Commerce City voters keep name the same". The Denver Post. April 3, 2007. Retrieved July 26, 2020.
  9. ^ Whaley, Monte. "Old Adams City High School to be renovated". Denver Post. Retrieved February 19, 2020.
  10. ^ Patterson, Kelly D.; Armon, Bruce D. (October 21, 2022). "Partisan Goals and Redistricting". Commonwealth. 7 (1). doi:10.15367/com.v7i1.551. ISSN 2469-7672.
  11. ^ Wise, Stephen (June 1999). "Extracting raster GIS data from scanned thematic maps". Transactions in GIS. 3 (3): 221–237. Bibcode:1999TrGIS...3..221W. doi:10.1111/1467-9671.00019. ISSN 1361-1682.
  12. ^ "Commerce City Weather". Retrieved May 27, 2015.
  13. ^ "US Census Bureau City and Town Population Totals: 2020-2024". census.gov. United States Census Bureau. Retrieved May 15, 2025.
  14. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  15. ^ "Suncor Refining and Marketing". suncor.com. Retrieved July 14, 2019.
  16. ^ Raabe, Steve (November 30, 2003). "Canada's sands of gold". The Denver Post. Archived from the original on May 12, 2004. Retrieved November 10, 2006.
  17. ^ "Suncor Energy's Commerce City refinery maintenance shutdown to begin February 3" (News release). Suncor Energy. February 2, 2006. Retrieved November 10, 2006.
  18. ^ "Suncor Energy acquires second refinery near Denver, Colorado". June 1, 2005. Archived from the original (News release) on October 16, 2006. Retrieved November 10, 2006.
  19. ^ "Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Announces Agreement with Valero Refining Company; Air Pollution Emissions to be Reduced Dramatically at Commerce City Refinery". State of Colorado, Department of Public Health and Environment. June 16, 2005. Archived from the original on September 23, 2006. Retrieved November 10, 2006.
  20. ^ "Environmental and operational enhancements complete - Suncor Energy completes upgrade to its Commerce City refinery". Decisionplus.com. June 26, 2006. Retrieved November 10, 2006.
  21. ^ a b "Explore | City of Commerce City". City of Commerce City Website. January 25, 2025. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  22. ^ "Paradice Island Pool at Pioneer Park". City of Commerce City Parks, Recreation & Golf Website. January 25, 2025. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  23. ^ "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Adams County, CO" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. p. 1 (PDF p. 2/3). Retrieved 2024-11-05. - Text list
  24. ^ Kirk, Alexander; Jordan Chavez (August 13, 2018). "No more Mondays for students in this Denver metro school district". 9 News. Retrieved August 14, 2018.
  25. ^ O'Brien, David (August 2, 1993). "Playing By The Book Dolphins Rookie Ronnie Bradford Is A Student Of The Game". Sun-Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 10, 2016. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
  26. ^ "Dominick Moreno's Biography". Vote Smart. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
  27. ^ "Joe Rogers, Colorado's second black lieutenant governor, has died". The Denver Post. October 8, 2013. Retrieved February 13, 2022.
  28. ^ "JoAnn Windholz, Rep. R-Commerce City, discusses powdered alcohol bill". The Denver Post. January 23, 2015. Archived from the original on December 8, 2015. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
[edit]

 

 

Littleton, Colorado
Downtown Littleton, 2015.
Downtown Littleton, 2015.
Location of the City of Littleton in Arapahoe,
Location of the City of Littleton in Arapahoe,
Littleton is located in the United States
Littleton
Littleton
Location of the City of Littleton in the United States.
Coordinates: 39°36′48″N 105°1′0″W / 39.61333°N 105.01667°W / 39.61333; -105.01667
Country United States
State Colorado
Counties[2] Arapahoe County
City[1] Littleton
Settled 1862
Incorporated March 13, 1890[4]
Named after Richard Little
Government
 
 • Type Council–manager government
 • Mayor Kyle Schlachter [5]
Area
 • Total
35.63 km2 (13.76 sq mi)
 • Land 32.69 km2 (12.62 sq mi)
 • Water 2.93 km2 (1.13 sq mi)
Elevation 1,645 m (5,397 ft)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
45,652[3]
 • Density 1,281.92/km2 (3,320.15/sq mi)
Time zone UTC−7 (MST)
 • Summer (DST) UTC−6 (MDT)
ZIP codes[8]
80120-80130, 80160-80163 (PO Boxes), 80165, 80166
Area codes Both 303 and 720
FIPS code 08-45255
GNIS feature ID 2410845[7]
Highways US 85, SH 75, SH 88, SH 470
Website littletonco.gov/

Littleton is a home rule municipality city located in Arapahoe county, Colorado, United States. Littleton is the county seat of Arapahoe County and is a part of the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area.[10][11] The city population was 45,652 at the 2020 United States census, ranking as the 20th most populous municipality in Colorado.

History

[edit]

The city of Littleton's history dates back to the 1859 Pike's Peak gold rush, which brought not just gold seekers, but merchants and farmers to the community. Richard Sullivan Little was an engineer from New Hampshire who came West to work on irrigation systems. Little soon decided to settle in the area at present day Littleton and brought his wife Angeline from the East in 1862. The Littles and neighbors built the Rough and Ready Flour Mill in 1867, which provided a solid economic base in the community. By 1890, the community had grown to 245 people and the residents voted to incorporate the Town of Littleton.[12]

Littleton grew significantly throughout the 1950s and 1960s due to its proximity to Denver and to the Martin Marietta facilities, which produced the Titan rocket and other aerospace products. Littleton is today fully engulfed in metropolitan Denver.

Littleton became widely known in 1999 when the Columbine High School massacre occurred, where two of the school's students, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, murdered 12 students and one teacher, injured 23 others and then killed themselves.[13] News media wrongly reported that the incident happened in the city, because the school's ZIP code is primarily associated with Littleton.[14] The school is located in adjacent Columbine, an unincorporated community, which is not a place name accepted by the U.S. Postal Service;[14] by default, locations in ZIP code 80123 use "Littleton" in their mailing addresses.[15] Columbine High School is in the Jefferson County school system and is not one of the Littleton Public Schools.[16][17]

Geography

[edit]

Littleton is located in central Colorado north of the junction of U.S. Route 85 and Colorado State Highway 470; the city is 9 miles (14 km) south of downtown Denver and 55 miles (89 km) north of Colorado Springs.[18][19]

Littleton lies on the South Platte River in the Colorado Piedmont region of the Great Plains a few miles east of the Front Range of the Southern Rocky Mountains.[18][20][21] Most of the city lies on the east side of the river. Several small tributaries of the river flow northwest through the city; from north to south, these include Big Dry Creek, Slaughterhouse Gulch, Lee Gulch, and Dad Clark Gulch. In addition, several small lakes and reservoirs are located along the river in the southwestern part of the city. Immediately west of the river are Cooley Lake, Bufflehead Lake, South Platte Reservoir, Eaglewatch Lake, Redtail Lake, and Blackrock Lake. Wolhurst Lake and McLellen Reservoir are east of the river, fed and drained by Dad Clark Gulch. Chatfield Reservoir lies immediately southwest of the city.[18]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 13.87 square miles (35.9 km2) of which 12.98 square miles (33.6 km2) is land and 0.89 square miles (2.3 km2) (6.4%) is water.[22]

As a suburb of Denver, Littleton is part of the Denver-Aurora metropolitan area and the Front Range Urban Corridor.[23] It shares a border with Denver and Englewood on the north, Greenwood Village on the northeast, Centennial on the east, Highlands Ranch on the south, Columbine and Columbine Valley on the west, and Bow Mar on the northwest.[22]

Unlike most county seats of suburban counties, Littleton is on the same house numbering grid, including its downtown, as the major city, in this case, Denver.

Climate

[edit]
Climate data for Littleton, Colorado (Elevation 5,310ft)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °F (°C) 78
(26)
76
(24)
86
(30)
88
(31)
90
(32)
98
(37)
99
(37)
98
(37)
94
(34)
88
(31)
82
(28)
76
(24)
99
(37)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 43.8
(6.6)
47.2
(8.4)
53.9
(12.2)
62.6
(17.0)
69.4
(20.8)
80.3
(26.8)
85.4
(29.7)
82.7
(28.2)
75.4
(24.1)
64.1
(17.8)
51.0
(10.6)
43.0
(6.1)
63.2
(17.3)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 15.3
(−9.3)
19.1
(−7.2)
27.7
(−2.4)
35.1
(1.7)
43.4
(6.3)
52.6
(11.4)
57.6
(14.2)
55.8
(13.2)
46.6
(8.1)
33.7
(0.9)
22.8
(−5.1)
15.0
(−9.4)
35.4
(1.9)
Record low °F (°C) −20
(−29)
−23
(−31)
−5
(−21)
6
(−14)
21
(−6)
36
(2)
44
(7)
42
(6)
17
(−8)
2
(−17)
−2
(−19)
−29
(−34)
−29
(−34)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 0.36
(9.1)
0.47
(12)
1.44
(37)
1.50
(38)
2.75
(70)
1.88
(48)
1.89
(48)
1.99
(51)
1.09
(28)
1.23
(31)
1.14
(29)
0.64
(16)
16.39
(416)
Average snowfall inches (cm) 8.9
(23)
7.8
(20)
11.9
(30)
7.8
(20)
0.6
(1.5)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0.9
(2.3)
3.0
(7.6)
12.2
(31)
12.7
(32)
65.7
(167)
Source: The Western Regional Climate Center[24]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
Census Pop. Note
1880 100  
1900 738  
1910 1,373   86.0%
1920 1,636   19.2%
1930 2,019   23.4%
1940 2,244   11.1%
1950 3,378   50.5%
1960 13,670   304.7%
1970 26,466   93.6%
1980 28,631   8.2%
1990 33,685   17.7%
2000 40,340   19.8%
2010 41,737   3.5%
2020 45,652   9.4%
2024 (est.) 44,879 [25] −1.7%
U.S. Decennial Census[26]

As of the 2020 census, there were 45,652 people and 20,300 households residing in the city. The population density was 3,215.5 inhabitants per square mile (1,241.5/km2). There were 21,476 housing units, of which 1,272 were vacant. In 2023 the racial makeup of the city was 83.1% White, 2.9% Asian, 1.6% African American, 0.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 7.8% from two or more races. Hispanics and Latinos of any race were 12.6% of the population. 10.3% of residents spoke a language other than English at home; 7.0% of the city's population spoke Spanish.[27]

There were 20,300 households, out of which 18.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.3% were married couples living together, 20.6% had a male householder with no spouse, and 27.5% had a female householder with no spouse. The average household size was 2.19.[27]

As of 2023 the distribution of the population by age was 18.5% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 31.3% from 25 to 44, 24.7% from 45 to 64, and 19.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40.2 years. The gender makeup of the city was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.[27]

The median income for a household in the city was $96,611, and the median income for a family was $130,080. Males had a median income of $52,674 versus $40,297 for females. The city's per capita income was $126,140. About 6.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.0% of those under age 18 and 10.5% of those age 65 or over.[27]

Economy

[edit]

As of 2023, 68.0% of the population over the age of 16 was in the labor force. The occupational composition of the employed civilian labor force was: 54.2% in management, business, science, and arts; 17.3% in sales and office occupations; 12.6% in service occupations; 9.3% in production, transportation, and material moving; and 6.7% in natural resources, construction, and maintenance. The three industries employing the largest percentages of the working civilian labor force were: educational services, health care, and social assistance (20.3%); professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services (16.0%); and finance and insurance, and real estate and rental leasing (9.5%).[27]

The cost of living in Littleton is average; compared to a U.S. average of 100, the cost of living index for the community is 102.7.[28] As of 2023, the median home value in the city was $596,700, the median selected monthly owner cost was $2,320 for housing units with a mortgage and $732 for those without, and the median gross rent was $1,731.[27]

Housing

[edit]

The city's housing stock is primarily made up of either detached single-family or apartment buildings.[29] In 2025, there was a proposal to permit so-called "missing middle" housing (duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes) in neighborhoods that were exclusively zoned for single-family homes, but six council members voted against it while Mayor Pro Tem Stephen Barr cast the lone vote in favor of the proposal.[29]

Government

[edit]
Main Street in Downtown Littleton
Main Street in Downtown Littleton
Coors Building
Coors Building

Littleton is a home-rule municipality with a council-manager form of government. The city council makes policy for the city and approves the annual city budget. The city manager implements the council's policies and oversees day-to-day administration of the city government and its departments.[30]

As the county seat, Littleton is the administrative center of Arapahoe County. The county government's main Administration Building is located in Littleton, and most county government departments base their operations in the city.[31]

Littleton lies mostly within Colorado's 6th U.S. Congressional District, but changes made to Colorado's congressional districts in 2012 put the extreme southwestern portion of the city into Colorado's 1st congressional district.[32] For the purposes of representation in the Colorado General Assembly, the city is located in the 26th and 30th districts of the Colorado Senate and the 3rd, 38th, and 43rd districts of the Colorado House of Representatives.[33]

Elected officials

[edit]

The council consists of seven members - one member for each of the four legislative districts, two at-large members, and the mayor.[34] Beginning in 2021, all council members are elected to 4-year terms. General elections for city council are held in odd-numbered years with either three or four council seats up for election. In 2021, Littleton voters elected the first popularly-elected mayor to a four-year term.

Current Littleton City Council makeup
Member District Term
Kyle Schlachter Mayor (At Large) 2021-2025
Joel Zink* At Large 2025*
Pam Grove At Large 2023-2027
Patrick Driscoll District 1 2021-2025
Robert Reichardt District 2 2023-2027
Stephen Barr District 3 2021-2025
Andrea Peters District 4 2023-2027

*Joel Zink was appointed to fill the vacancy created when Council Member Gretchen Rydin stepped down following her election to the Colorado State Legislature. The term expires in November 2025.

List of mayors of Littleton
Mayor Term
Franklin S. Gilmore 1890–1891
Dr. D.S. Weaver 1891–1892
H.H. Shepperd 1892–1893
J. Vanatta 1893–1894
G.M. Benedict 1894–1895
H.H. Shepperd 1895–1896
G.M. Benedict 1896–1897
C.H. Barclay 1897–1898
H.H. Shepperd 1898–1901
C.W. Sittser 1901–1902
Dr. J.A. Farnsworth 1902–1905
R.F. Gill 1905–1906
H.H. Shepperd 1906–1908
Dr. W.C. Crysler 1908–1910
J.E. Maloney 1910–1912
John B. Mayers 1912–1913
J.E. Maloney 1913–1919
S.A. Noyes 1919–1921
O.C. Hoffman 1921–1924
Dr. W.C. Crysler 1924–1926
C.E. Stephenson 1926–1929
Charles G. Louthan 1929–1932
Dr. C.C. Harrod 1932–1934
Charles G. Louthan 1934–1940
H.H. Taylor 1941–1946
Roy E. Babcock 1946–1948
George Malcolm 1948–1952
Norman Granes 1952–1956
Frank A. Randall 1956–1957
A.N. (Bert) Williams 1957–1959
Everett Dawson 1959–1960
Gordon F. Taylor 1960–1963
Thomas R. Heaton 1963–1965
John G. Kinghorn 1965–1969
A.R. Bessette 1969–1971
F. Vaughn Gardinier 1971–1975
Harold Meyer 1975–1977
Sally M. Parsons 1977–1979
James P. Collins 1979–1983
Charley Emley 1983–1989
Susan Thornton 1989–1993
Dennis Reynolds 1993–1997
Pat Cronenberger 1997–1999
Susan Thornton 1999–2003
John Ostermiller 2003–2005
Jim Taylor 2005–2007
Doug Clark 2007– 2011
Debbie Brinkman 2011– 2013
Phil Cernanec 2013– 2015
Bruce Beckman 2015– 2017
Debbie Brinkman 2017– 2019
Jerry Valdes 2019– 2021
Kyle Schlachter 2021– present

ZIP codes

[edit]

The place name "Littleton" was assigned to eleven ZIP codes which cover a vast area west, east, and south of the city much larger than the city itself. This area includes the following unincorporated communities:

In addition, an extreme southwest portion of Denver, the Marston neighborhood, is located in a ZIP code (80123) with "Littleton" as the preferred place name for use in mailing addresses, though "Denver" is also acceptable. The Federal Correctional Institution, Englewood, also located in this ZIP code, is neither in Littleton[35] nor Englewood, but in unincorporated Jefferson County.[36]

Education

[edit]

Primary and secondary education

[edit]

The majority of the portion in Arapahoe County is in Littleton Public Schools. Small portions are in the Sheridan School District 2 and Englewood School District 1.[37]

The small portion of Littleton in Jefferson County is within Jeffco Public Schools.[38] The small portion of Littleton in Douglas County is within Douglas County School District RE-1.[39]

Colleges and universities

[edit]

The Colorado Center for the Blind, a skills training program for blind teenagers and adults operated by the National Federation of the Blind, is located in Littleton.

Transportation

[edit]

Highways

[edit]

Four highways run through the city of Littleton:

Mass transit

[edit]

The Regional Transportation District provides bus and light rail service to Littleton. Light rail service to the city began on July 14, 2000, on the C and D Lines, however C Line operation ended on January 10, 2021. There are two light rail stations within the city, Littleton-Downtown station located within downtown Littleton and Littleton-Mineral station located near the Aspen Grove shopping center, which serves as the southern terminus of the D Line.

Culture

[edit]
Falcon 9 Rocket Booster opened for general public at Dish Network's Littleton, CO office is a type of reusable rocket that SpaceX used for repeated launches
Falcon 9 Rocket Booster opened for general public at Dish Network's Littleton, CO office is a type of reusable rocket that SpaceX used for repeated launches[40]

Arts and music

[edit]
Snow in Littleton, Colorado, during March 2021
  • Town Hall Arts Center
  • The Depot Art Gallery and Littleton Fine Arts Guild
  • Littleton Symphony Orchestra
  • Voices West (fka Littleton Chorale)
  • Littleton Museum
  • SpaceX Falcon 9 booster[41]

Events

[edit]

Western Welcome Week
Since the late 1920s, Littleton has celebrated Western Welcome Week - an annual community celebration in the greater Littleton area. Western Welcome Week started in the late 1920s, and has been held every year since. Western Welcome Week includes over 40 events benefiting dozens of local civic and charitable organizations.[42]

Candlelight Walk
The Candlelight Walk is a Littleton tradition, featuring an evening of holiday festivities, culminating in the illumination of the trees on Main Street.[43]

Twilight Criterium

[edit]

The Littleton Twilight Criterium occurs in the late summer in Historic Downtown Littleton on a 0.8-mile course. The event features famous athletes, concerts, and a cruiser ride for the general public.[44]

Healthcare

[edit]

The only hospital is AdventHealth Littleton.[45]

Points of interest

[edit]

Sister cities

[edit]
  • Bega, New South Wales, Australia

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Active Colorado Municipalities". State of Colorado, Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Local Government. Retrieved January 27, 2021.
  2. ^ "Colorado Counties". State of Colorado, Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Local Government. Retrieved January 27, 2021.
  3. ^ "Explore Census Data".
  4. ^ "Colorado Municipal Incorporations". State of Colorado, Department of Personnel & Administration, Colorado State Archives. December 1, 2004. Archived from the original on August 23, 2003. Retrieved September 2, 2007.
  5. ^ "City Council Members". Littleton, Colorado. City of Littleton. Retrieved November 19, 2021.
  6. ^ "2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved July 1, 2020.
  7. ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Littleton, Colorado
  8. ^ "ZIP Code Lookup". United States Postal Service. Archived from the original (JavaScript/HTML) on January 1, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
  9. ^ "Population and Housing Unit Estimates". United States Census Bureau. May 24, 2020. Retrieved May 27, 2020.
  10. ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  11. ^ "Active Colorado Municipalities as of December 11, 2009 (271 municipalities)". Archived from the original on December 12, 2009. Retrieved December 7, 2007.
  12. ^ "General History of Littleton | Littleton CO".
  13. ^ Eric W. Hickey (July 22, 2003). Encyclopedia of Murder and Violent Crime. SAGE Publications. p. 86. ISBN 978-0-7619-2437-1.Seymour Bernard Sarason (January 1, 2001). American Psychology & Schools: A Critique. Teachers College Press. pp. 59. ISBN 978-0-8077-4087-3.
  14. ^ a b Ralph W. Larkin (January 1, 2007). Comprehending Columbine. Temple University Press. p. 37. ISBN 978-1-59213-492-2.
  15. ^ "Look Up a ZIP Code™". usps.com. Retrieved March 19, 2015.
  16. ^ "School Web Sites". jeffcopublicschools.org. Retrieved March 20, 2015.
  17. ^ "High Schools". littletonpublicschools.net. Retrieved March 20, 2015.
  18. ^ a b c "Littleton, CO". Google Maps. Retrieved February 24, 2016.
  19. ^ "Distance Calculator". Infoplease. Retrieved February 24, 2016.
  20. ^ "Physiographic Provinces of Colorado [Map]". Colorado Geological Survey. Retrieved February 24, 2015.
  21. ^ "General Map of Colorado". Colorado Life Zones. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved February 24, 2016.
  22. ^ a b "Colorado: 2010 - Population and Housing Unit Counts" (PDF). United States Census Bureau. August 2012. Retrieved February 18, 2015.
  23. ^ "OMB Bulletin No. 13-01" (PDF). Office of Management and Budget. February 28, 2013. Retrieved February 9, 2015 – via National Archives.
  24. ^ "Seasonal Temperature and Precipitation Information". Western Regional Climate Center. Retrieved November 18, 2013.
  25. ^ "US Census Bureau City and Town Population Totals: 2020-2024". census.gov. United States Census Bureau. Retrieved May 15, 2025.
  26. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved March 19, 2025.
  27. ^ a b c d e f "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 18, 2025.
  28. ^ "Littleton, Colorado". City-Data.com. Retrieved March 19, 2025.
  29. ^ a b "Littleton tables measure aimed at welcoming denser housing types in face of growing opposition". The Denver Post. January 8, 2025.
  30. ^ "City Manager | Littleton CO". www.littletongov.org. Retrieved October 31, 2021.
  31. ^ "County Locations". Arapahoe County, Colorado. Retrieved February 26, 2015.
  32. ^ "Find a Senator or Representative [Map]". Govtrack.us. Retrieved February 26, 2016.
  33. ^ "Colorado State Legislature". Open States. Sunlight Foundation. Retrieved February 26, 2015.
  34. ^ "City Council Members | Littleton CO". www.littletongov.org. Retrieved October 31, 2021.
  35. ^ Jones, Rebecca. "Article: PRISON HAS A FIELD OF VISION.(Spotlight)." Rocky Mountain News. May 2, 1999. Retrieved on July 28, 2010.
  36. ^ "FCI Englewood Contact Information." Federal Bureau of Prisons. Retrieved on July 28, 2010.
  37. ^ "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Arapahoe County, CO" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. p. 1 (PDF p. 2/6). Retrieved January 28, 2023.
  38. ^ "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Jefferson County, CO" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. p. 1 (PDF p. 2/3). Retrieved January 28, 2023. - Text list
  39. ^ "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Douglas County, CO" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved January 28, 2023. - Text list
  40. ^ "SpaceX rocket being installed in Littleton". KUSA.com. November 1, 2023. Retrieved May 29, 2024.
  41. ^ "SpaceX rocket being installed in Littleton". KUSA.com. November 1, 2023. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  42. ^ http://www.westernwelcomeweek.org Western Welcome Week
  43. ^ "Candlelight Walk returns November 27". www.littletongov.org. Archived from the original on September 27, 2011.
  44. ^ "Twilight Criterium – Littleton Rocks!". littletonrocks.com. Retrieved July 11, 2018.
  45. ^ Joss, Nina (April 12, 2024). "No hospital bed races, but stories and food mark AdventHealth Littleton's 35th anniversary". Littleton Independent. Retrieved October 29, 2024.
[edit]

 

Brighton is located in Colorado
Brighton
Brighton
Brighton (Colorado)
Brighton, Colorado
Brighton City Hall
Brighton City Hall
Flag of Brighton, Colorado
Motto: 
"What we value today is what we become tomorrow"
Location within Adams and Weld counties, Colorado
Location within Adams and Weld counties, Colorado
Brighton is located in the United States
Brighton
Brighton
Location of the City of Brighton, Colorado.

Coordinates: 39°59′07″N 104°49′14″W / 39.9853°N 104.8205°W / 39.9853; -104.8205 (Brighton, Colorado)[3]CountryUnited StatesStateColoradoCountiesAdams County seat and
Weld County[2]IncorporatedSeptember 1, 1887[4]Named afterBrighton Beach, New YorkGovernment

 

 • Typehome rule city[1] • MayorGreg Mills[citation needed]Area

 • Total

21.536 sq mi (55.777 km2) • Land21.247 sq mi (55.030 km2) • Water0.288 sq mi (0.747 km2)Elevation

4,987 ft (1,520 m)Population

 • Total

40,083 • Density1,887/sq mi (729/km2) • CSA

 

3,623,560 (17th) • Front Range

 

5,055,344Time zoneUTC−07:00 (MST) • Summer (DST)UTC−06:00 (MDT)ZIP code[6]

80601-80603

Area codes303/720/983GNIS pop ID204736GNIS town ID2409911FIPS code08-08675WebsiteCity of Brighton

Brighton is a home rule city located in Adams and Weld counties, Colorado, United States.[1] Brighton is the county seat of Adams County and is a part of the Denver-Aurora, CO Combined Statistical Area and the Front Range Urban Corridor.[7] The city population was 40,083 at the 2020 United States census with 39,718 residing in Adams County and 365 residing in Weld County.[5]

History

[edit]

Brighton was founded as a stage/railroad depot and farming community named Hughes. The Hughes, Colorado Territory, post office opened on April 13, 1871,[8] Colorado became a state on August 1, 1876,[9] and the Hughes post office was renamed Brighton on August 4, 1879.[8] The town was named for Brighton Beach, New York.[10]

The Town of Brighton was incorporated on September 1, 1887.[4][11] Adams County was created on April 15, 1901, with Brighton as its seat.

Geography

[edit]

Brighton is a suburb of Denver located at coordinates

39°59′07″N 104°49′14″W / 39.9853°N 104.8205°W / 39.9853; -104.8205 (Brighton, Colorado) at an elevation of 4,987 feet (1,520 m).[3]

At the 2020 United States census, the city had a total area of 13,783 acres (55.777 km2), including 185 acres (0.747 km2) of water.[5]

Climate

[edit]

According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Brighton has a cold semi-arid climate, abbreviated BSk on climate maps.

Climate data for Brighton, Colorado, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1973–present
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °F (°C) 74
(23)
80
(27)
82
(28)
91
(33)
99
(37)
104
(40)
105
(41)
103
(39)
100
(38)
90
(32)
82
(28)
75
(24)
105
(41)
Mean maximum °F (°C) 65.3
(18.5)
67.7
(19.8)
76.3
(24.6)
82.4
(28.0)
90.5
(32.5)
97.8
(36.6)
100.5
(38.1)
97.8
(36.6)
93.8
(34.3)
85.1
(29.5)
74.2
(23.4)
65.5
(18.6)
101.0
(38.3)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 44.4
(6.9)
45.9
(7.7)
55.9
(13.3)
62.9
(17.2)
71.9
(22.2)
84.1
(28.9)
90.0
(32.2)
87.6
(30.9)
79.8
(26.6)
65.9
(18.8)
53.3
(11.8)
44.0
(6.7)
65.5
(18.6)
Daily mean °F (°C) 30.2
(−1.0)
32.2
(0.1)
41.3
(5.2)
48.4
(9.1)
57.5
(14.2)
68.3
(20.2)
74.1
(23.4)
72.0
(22.2)
63.6
(17.6)
50.4
(10.2)
39.1
(3.9)
30.2
(−1.0)
50.6
(10.3)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 16.1
(−8.8)
18.5
(−7.5)
26.7
(−2.9)
33.9
(1.1)
43.2
(6.2)
52.4
(11.3)
58.2
(14.6)
56.4
(13.6)
47.4
(8.6)
35.0
(1.7)
25.0
(−3.9)
16.3
(−8.7)
35.8
(2.1)
Mean minimum °F (°C) −5.7
(−20.9)
−2.6
(−19.2)
9.4
(−12.6)
20.4
(−6.4)
29.8
(−1.2)
42.7
(5.9)
50.9
(10.5)
48.5
(9.2)
35.1
(1.7)
18.9
(−7.3)
5.4
(−14.8)
−4.7
(−20.4)
−13.5
(−25.3)
Record low °F (°C) −23
(−31)
−24
(−31)
−13
(−25)
−8
(−22)
19
(−7)
34
(1)
44
(7)
41
(5)
19
(−7)
0
(−18)
−14
(−26)
−26
(−32)
−26
(−32)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 0.42
(11)
0.43
(11)
0.98
(25)
1.77
(45)
2.35
(60)
1.41
(36)
1.72
(44)
1.77
(45)
1.18
(30)
1.02
(26)
0.69
(18)
0.37
(9.4)
14.11
(360.4)
Average snowfall inches (cm) 5.2
(13)
5.3
(13)
6.0
(15)
3.1
(7.9)
0.5
(1.3)
0.0
(0.0)
0.0
(0.0)
0.0
(0.0)
0.2
(0.51)
3.2
(8.1)
5.8
(15)
5.2
(13)
34.5
(86.81)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) 3.9 4.4 5.6 6.9 8.3 6.6 6.9 6.1 5.4 4.9 4.4 3.7 67.1
Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) 3.8 3.9 3.3 2.1 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 1.1 3.1 3.9 21.7
Source 1: NOAA[12]
Source 2: National Weather Service[13]

Demographics

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Historical population
Census Pop. Note
1890 306  
1900 366   19.6%
1910 850   132.2%
1920 2,715   219.4%
1930 3,394   25.0%
1940 4,029   18.7%
1950 4,336   7.6%
1960 7,055   62.7%
1970 8,309   17.8%
1980 12,773   53.7%
1990 14,203   11.2%
2000 20,905   47.2%
2010 33,352   59.5%
2020 40,083   20.2%
2024 (est.) 43,473 [14] 8.5%
U.S. Decennial Census

As of the census[15] of 2000, there were 20,905 people, 6,718 households, and 5,058 families living in the city. The population density was 1,224.1 inhabitants per square mile (472.6/km2). There were 6,990 housing units at an average density of 409.3 per square mile (158.0/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 76.91% White, 0.99% African American, 1.47% Native American, 1.10% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 16.29% from other races, and 3.20% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 38.22% of the population.

There were 6,718 households, out of which 40.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.6% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 19.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.92 and the average family size was 3.34.

In the city, the age distribution of the population shows 28.6% under the age of 18, 10.1% from 18 to 24, 32.7% from 25 to 44, 18.8% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 108.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $46,779, and the median income for a family was $53,286. Males had a median income of $35,686 versus $27,103 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,927. About 6.1% of families and 9.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.0% of those under age 18 and 8.6% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

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Brighton is the home of two Vestas manufacturing plants, a wind turbine blade factory and a nacelle manufacturing plant. The factories are valued at $290 million and will provide 1,350 employment opportunities: 650 in the blade factory and another 700 in the nacelle manufacturing plant. Groundbreaking for the factories took place on March 25, 2009.[16]

The Prairie Center is a 396-acre (1.60 km2) shopping center with a pedestrian-oriented retail village.

The Greater Brighton Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau began helping small businesses in the Brighton community in 1955, paving the way for the expansion of Brighton retail, and manufacturing. The Brighton Chamber helped to secure Brighton as an Agritourism destination within the Denver Metro area for Farm Fresh Produce and opening the Brighton Visitors Center in May 2020. The Greater Brighton Chamber of Commerce is ranked the 14th Best Chamber in the Denver area per the Denver Business Journal.[17][18]

Education

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School District 27J serves the community.

Notable people

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Notable individuals who were born in or have lived in Brighton include:

Sister city

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Brighton has a sister city, as designated by Sister Cities International:

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c "Active Colorado Municipalities". Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Retrieved February 13, 2025.
  2. ^ "Colorado Counties". Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Retrieved February 2, 2025.
  3. ^ a b c "Brighton, Colorado". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior. Retrieved February 2, 2025.
  4. ^ a b "Colorado Municipal Incorporations". State of Colorado, Department of Personnel & Administration, Colorado State Archives. December 1, 2004. Archived from the original on September 27, 2007. Retrieved September 2, 2007.
  5. ^ a b c d "Decennial Census P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data". United States Census Bureau, United States Department of Commerce. August 12, 2021. Retrieved September 7, 2021.
  6. ^ "ZIP Code Lookup". United States Postal Service. Retrieved February 2, 2025.
  7. ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Archived from the original on May 31, 2011. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  8. ^ a b Bauer, William H.; Ozment, James L.; Willard, John H. (1990). Colorado Post Offices 1859–1989. Golden, Colorado: Colorado Railroad Historical Foundation. ISBN 0-918654-42-4.
  9. ^ Ulysses S. Grant (August 1, 1876). "Proclamation 230—Admission of Colorado into the Union". The American Presidency Project. Retrieved December 24, 2024.
  10. ^ "Profile for Brighton, Colorado, CO". ePodunk. Archived from the original on May 15, 2019. Retrieved May 7, 2012.
  11. ^ "City of Brighton celebrates 125th Anniversary". City of Brighton Colorado. Archived from the original on December 13, 2012. Retrieved May 7, 2012.
  12. ^ "U.S. Climate Normals Quick Access". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
  13. ^ "NOAA Online Weather Data". National Weather Service. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
  14. ^ "US Census Bureau City and Town Population Totals: 2020-2024". census.gov. United States Census Bureau. Retrieved May 15, 2025.
  15. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  16. ^ "Vestas breaks ground on Colorado wind-turbine plants". March 25, 2009.
  17. ^ Nelson, Ethan (June 19, 2020). "2020 Denver-area chambers of commerce and economic development organizations". BizJournals.com. Retrieved 2024-05-13.
  18. ^ "About Us - Brighton Chamber of Commerce, CO".
  19. ^ Saunders, Patrick (August 17, 2014). "Former Rockies great Todd Helton content in first year away from game". The Denver Post. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
  20. ^ "Kane, John L. Jr". Biographical Directory of Federal Judges. Federal Judicial Center. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
  21. ^ "Dillon Serna". Major League Soccer. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
  22. ^ Asmar, Melanie (May 28, 2009). "Who was Angie Zapata? Her murderer's trial didn't tell the whole story". Westword. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
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