I had the opportunity to hear several local historians and city planners talk about the past, present and future of Boulder. I thought I would share some fun information about the development of Boulder and the mid 1900s housing boom.
Two years ago the city of Boulder put out a study of residential development in Post World War II Boulder, CO. The project was funded through a Colorado Historical Society grant. Boulder experienced a surge in growth following the war. A quiet town of 13,000 in 1940 was transformed into a sophisticated city of 72,000 by 1970. The opening of US 36 in 1952 brought a lot more people to the city. The initial toll was 25 cents per car.
Ten subdivisions are the focus of this study. Sunset Hills, Interurban Park, Flatirons Park, Highland Park, Edgewood, Martin Acres, Wagoner Manow, Baseline, Table Mesa, and Park East.
Houses built from 1947-1967 make up 30% of the city’s current housing stock. During that time period the city’s population tripled in size.You know the houses I am talking about. Ones like this ranch home built in 1955 in Martin Acres. Martin Acres homes went for around $13,000 brand new at that time.
Did you know? Over 20 million houses were constructed in the US between 1963 and 1973, making this period the largest housing boom in American history.
Look for more great information in the coming weeks on my blog.