URGENT UPDATE: The fate of the beloved Dark Horse bar in Boulder has been sealed after the Boulder City Council unanimously approved the Williams Village II development project in a crucial meeting last November. This decision paves the way for the demolition of the iconic bar, a staple in the community for over 50 years, located at 2922 Baseline Road.
The council’s vote comes as part of a larger mixed-use project that aims to reshape the area, which includes plans for 427 residential units and 122 units specifically for students from the nearby University of Colorado Boulder. The mixed-use development is set to feature 58,365 square feet of commercial space, parks, and more than 11 new trees designed to support pollinators.
Despite the impending closure, the Dark Horse will temporarily remain operational until at least March 14, 2025, following public outcry and efforts to extend its operational timeline. Earlier plans indicated that the bar could have faced demolition before the end of the year, which would have left its staff without jobs during the holiday season. In response to community pleas, city officials have worked to delay the closure, allowing the establishment to continue serving patrons while a new location is being developed.
The original Dark Horse, characterized by its brown-bricked exterior and eclectic interior filled with antiques, holds a special place in the hearts of many Boulder residents and students. News of its demolition has triggered widespread dismay and outrage online, highlighting the bar’s significance as a cherished student watering hole.
As the Williams Village II project progresses, the new Dark Horse location will eventually span approximately 6,000 square feet, though its completion date remains uncertain as it hinges on the second phase of development.
Residents and alumni alike are watching closely as the timeline for the Dark Horse’s transition unfolds. The emotional impact of losing a local institution weighs heavily on the community, with many expressing nostalgia and concern over the loss of a cultural landmark.
Stay tuned for further updates as Boulder navigates this significant change, affecting both the local landscape and the community’s social fabric. The countdown is on for the Dark Horse, and its future remains a hot topic among locals and students alike.
