Arvada is a beautiful first-ring suburb of Denver, and retains a small-town feel, even with its population of approximately 113,500. Established in 1870, Arvada enjoys a rich history, quiet tree-lined neighborhoods, and a robust mix of business. It has strong civic leadership which balances quality of life with an understanding and support of business and economic development.
Arvada’s land encompasses nearly 40 square miles, and is only 8 miles from the state capital of Denver. The city is proximate to three interstate highways (I-70, I-76 and I-25) and is also serviced by Colorado State Highway 58. Surrounding communities include Westminster (North), Lakewood and Wheat Ridge (South), Denver (East), and Golden (West). An extraordinary trail system links with Denver trails on the East and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to the West, punctuated with thousands of acres of parks and open spaces. Residents and businesses have easy access to world-class research institutions including the University of Colorado and Colorado School of Mines; in addition, the Arvada campus of Red Rocks Community College provides training assistance to meet employer needs.
Olde Town Arvada‘s historic downtown, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, provides an eclectic shopping and dining experience, and is one of three area transit stops as part of the metropolitan FasTracklight rail system (beginning fall of 2016). The city also takes great pride in the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, one of the largest multi-disciplinary art and cultural centers in the country. The Center offers everything from award-winning theater productions and concerts to educational classes, as well as a large banquet facility for corporate and social gatherings.
Arvada’s diverse economic base, highly educated workforce, low crime rate, and superb quality of life have helped shape this community into one of the most attractive and competitive cities in the Centennial State!
HISTORY
Arvada was the site of the first gold strike in Colorado. On June 22, 1850, a wagon train, bound for California, crossed the Platte River just north of the confluence with Clear Creek, following Clear Creek west for six miles. The members of the wagon train rested for a day, and Lewis Ralston dipped his gold pan in an unnamed mountain stream. He found almost $5 in gold in his first pan. The stream was later named Ralston Creek in his memory. Visit the Arvada History Museum in the Arvada Center for exhibits, archives and more info.
TRIVIA
The first King Soopers was in Olde Town Arvada in 1947. Lloyd J. King was the owner.
Clive Cussler, famous author, was an Arvada resident and still holds property in Arvada.
Larry Green, Channel 4 weatherman, graduated from Arvada West High School and was the senior class president.
Kim Christensen, Channel 9 co-anchorperson, graduated from Arvada West High School.