UPDATE: The beloved Dark Horse bar in Boulder, Colorado, is set to close its doors for good as the Boulder City Council just approved the controversial Williams Village II project. The decision, made during a November meeting, means the demolition of the iconic establishment located at 2922 Baseline Road is now imminent.
The Dark Horse has served as a cherished gathering spot for over 50 years, deeply ingrained in the local culture and especially popular among University of Colorado Boulder students. However, the approval of the mixed-use development project has ignited outrage and dismay among current and former residents. The bar’s impending closure has left many in the community feeling a sense of loss.
Initially, the Dark Horse was expected to be demolished before the end of the year, which would have left its staff without jobs during the holiday season. In response to public outcry, the city found a procedural way to extend the bar’s operation until at least March 14, 2025, allowing it to remain open for a few more months while preparations for the new location unfold.
The new Dark Horse will occupy approximately 6,000 square feet within the second phase of the development. Despite the promise of a new space, many patrons are mourning the original bar, which features a unique collection of antiques and artifacts that have adorned its walls for decades.
The Williams Village II project will introduce 427 residential units to the area, including 122 dedicated to students, as well as 58,365 square feet of commercial space, parks, and other amenities. The development aims to enhance the local community while also addressing housing shortages.
As the countdown to the Dark Horse’s closure begins, the emotional impact on the Boulder community is palpable. Residents are urged to visit the bar and share their memories as they prepare for the transition, underscoring the importance of local establishments in shaping community identity.
Stay tuned for further updates on the future of the Dark Horse and the Williams Village II project as this story continues to develop.
