Discovering the Highlands: A Neighborhood Steeped in Story
Nestled on the northwest edge of Broomfield, the Highlands neighborhood is much more than a collection of beautiful homes and winding streets. It’s a place where prairie history meets modern living, where neighbors greet each other by name, and where every sidewalk holds echoes of the city’s past. For those who call Highlands home—or for those who hope to—understanding the heritage of this welcoming enclave is key to appreciating its enduring charm.
Origins of the Highlands: From Farmland to Neighborhood
The story of Highlands begins long before paved roads and manicured parks. In the early 20th century, this land was open prairie, dotted with wild grasses and framed by expansive views of the Rockies. The area that would become Highlands sat just west of the oldest parts of Broomfield, near today’s W 144th Avenue and Zuni Street.
Local lore suggests that the neighborhood’s name originated from its slightly elevated locale, which offered sweeping southern views across the city and gave early residents the feeling of living “high” above the valley. Farmers once worked these fertile fields, making use of nearby streams and the occasional pond. Gently rolling hills made the land distinct—perfect for the “Highlands” moniker.
Key Historical Milestones
- *1920s–1950s: Agricultural Roots*: Early settlers in what would become Broomfield’s Highlands tilled the land, raising wheat, corn, and livestock. The closer proximity to the growing Denver-Boulder corridor increased the area’s appeal.
- *Late 1960s: Suburban Growth*: As Broomfield expanded, demand for new neighborhoods brought developers to the northwest. By the late 1960s, plans for the Highlands began to take shape, blending family homes with community green spaces.
- *1972: The Highlands Park Dedication*: The city officially dedicated Highlands Park, strategically located along W 144th Avenue and Perry Street. From the start, the park was envisioned as the heart of the neighborhood—a gathering space for neighbors of all generations.
- *1980s–1990s: Community Cohesion*: By the 1980s, Highlands had developed its signature tree-lined streets such as Sheridan Boulevard, Alder Court, and Highland Drive. Community associations were formed, and enduring traditions, such as annual block parties and holiday parades, began to take root.
Landmarks and Points of Pride
Highlands is home to several local landmarks that tell the story of the neighborhood’s past and present.
- Highlands Park: The crown jewel of the community, Highlands Park remains a vibrant space for picnics, soccer games, and summertime concerts. Its playground, updated in the early 2000s, echoes with the laughter of local children—much as it did when it first opened.
- The Old Farmhouse on Zuni Street: Remnants of Highlands’ agricultural roots can be found in a preserved 1930s farmhouse near the intersection of Zuni Street and W 145th Avenue. Today, it serves as a historical site and occasional venue for neighborhood events, honoring those who shaped the community’s identity.
- Broomfield Highlands Community Church: Built in 1976 at the corner of Highland Drive and Oak Street, the church has long hosted civic meetings and charity programs. Its stained-glass windows depict the natural beauty of the Highlands, capturing the spirit of community service and fellowship.
Streets That Remember
Walking the Highlands, one is struck by the way history lingers in the names and layout of its streets. Highland Drive winds through the heart of the neighborhood, echoing the rise and fall of the land. Nearby streets—such as Kings Mill Court and Clover Lane—hint at the agricultural beginnings of the area, where livestock once grazed and hay was cut each summer.
Alleyways retain their old-fashioned charm, allowing for rear garages and cozy backyard gatherings. The design fosters both privacy and togetherness—neighbors might chat over back fences or come together for impromptu barbeques.
Schools and Institutions: Nurturing a New Generation
Highlands is fortunate to be served by acclaimed schools such as Meridian Elementary and the adjacent Broomfield High, located just a short drive away on Miramonte Boulevard. The school community extends beyond the classroom, with students and families frequently volunteering at Highlands Park or participating in spring clean-up events.
Nearby, the Highland Branch Library (opened in 1995) quickly became a hub of learning and creativity, hosting story times, community classes, and even local art exhibitions. The library reflects the neighborhood’s commitment to growth and connection.
Evolution Over the Decades
Over the past half-century, Highlands has gracefully melded tradition and progress. While new construction and renovations have kept the neighborhood fresh, there’s a concerted effort among residents and local officials to preserve mature cottonwoods and native grasslands. Environmental stewardship programs, often led by the community association, ensure that the sense of openness and natural beauty remains intact.
Modern amenities—such as bike paths linking Highlands Park to the Broomfield Trail and innovative water-wise landscaping—underscore the careful balance between honoring the past and embracing the future.
A Community Defined by Spirit
What truly makes Highlands special, however, is its people. Neighbors here value deep-rooted traditions—like annual Fourth of July parades down Highland Drive—while also welcoming newcomers from across Colorado and beyond. A robust network of block captains and social clubs keeps the neighborhood interconnected, providing support in times of need and celebration in times of joy.
Residents take pride in the area’s story, ensuring it’s passed from generation to generation. The old adage rings true: In Highlands, you don’t just buy a house—you become part of living history.
Highlands Today: Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
Today, as you stroll through the quiet, leafy streets of Highlands, it’s easy to sense the layers of history beneath your feet. The neighborhood is a living tapestry, woven together by the enduring spirit of its families, the wisdom of its founders, and the promises of its future. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a new arrival, Highlands welcomes you with the warmth of community and a steadfast embrace of heritage—a true gem in Broomfield’s ever-evolving landscape.