UPDATE: The iconic Dark Horse bar, a staple of Boulder culture for over 50 years, is facing imminent demolition after the Boulder City Council unanimously approved the controversial Williams Village II development project during a meeting in November 2024. This decision has sparked a wave of outrage among residents and former patrons.
The Dark Horse is located at 2922 Baseline Road, and the council’s approval marks a significant shift in the area’s landscape. The proposed mixed-use development will require the bar’s demolition, which many consider an irreplaceable part of Boulder’s heritage. While the business will transition to a new location within the same lot, the emotional impact on current and former University of Colorado Boulder students is palpable.
Residents expressed their dismay on social media, calling for the preservation of the beloved watering hole. The community’s outcry led city officials to re-evaluate the timeline for the bar’s closure. Initially slated for demolition before the holidays, the Dark Horse is now expected to remain operational until at least March 14, 2025. This extension provides a temporary reprieve for its loyal patrons and staff.
In its new location, the Dark Horse will occupy approximately 6,000 square feet as part of the second phase of the Williams Village II project. This ambitious development will feature 427 residential units, including 122 units designated for students, along with over 58,000 square feet of commercial space, parks, and green areas designed to support local wildlife.
The Brown-bricked Dark Horse building, well-known for its eclectic decor and vibrant atmosphere, has long been a favorite gathering spot for students and locals alike. The impending changes signal a notable transformation of the neighborhood, which has raised questions about the balance between development and preserving community history.
As the community grapples with these changes, the fate of the Dark Horse serves as a poignant reminder of the rapid evolution of urban landscapes. What happens next will be closely monitored by both supporters of the bar and advocates for development.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as Boulder prepares for a significant transition that could reshape its cultural identity. The future of the Dark Horse remains uncertain, but its legacy is deeply embedded within the fabric of Boulder’s community.
