Acres Green, CO
County: Douglas
History
Acres Green is a small community located in Douglas County, Colorado, in the United States. The history of Acres Green is relatively short, as it was originally a planned housing development that began in the 1970s.
The land where Acres Green now stands was once part of the vast ranch owned by Samuel A. Craig, an influential and prominent figure in the region. However, as the Denver metropolitan area expanded, developers began to see the potential for suburban housing in the area. In 1973, developers purchased a large portion of the Craig Ranch and began to develop it into what is now known as Acres Green.
The name "Acres Green" was chosen to reflect the area's natural beauty and its planned emphasis on communal green spaces. The first homes were built in the late 1970s, and the community gradually grew over the years. Acres Green became an unincorporated community, meaning it is not governed by its own municipal government but falls under the jurisdiction of Douglas County.
Today, Acres Green is a diverse community with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is primarily a suburban area, with a population of approximately 3,800 people. The community is known for its well-maintained neighborhoods, schools, and community parks. Residents enjoy easy access to nearby amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational areas.
While its history is relatively short, Acres Green has grown into a thriving community that continues to attract new residents who appreciate its convenient location, well-planned development, and strong sense of community.
Attractions
Chatfield State Park
Located about 10 miles southwest of Acres Green, Chatfield State Park offers boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and horseback riding opportunities. The park also has a designated swim beach and a hot air balloon launch site.
Lone Tree Arts Center
Situated in the neighboring city of Lone Tree, the Lone Tree Arts Center offers a variety of performances, including music, theater, and dance shows. It also hosts art exhibits and educational programs.
Park Meadows Mall
Located in Lone Tree, Park Meadows Mall is a large upscale shopping center that features a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre
This outdoor concert venue in nearby Englewood hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, featuring both national and local artists.
Aspen Grove Shopping Center
Situated in Littleton, just a short drive away, Aspen Grove is a charming open-air shopping center that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.
South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center
Located in Littleton, South Platte Park offers scenic walking and biking trails along the South Platte River. The Carson Nature Center provides educational exhibits about the local environment.
Roxborough State Park
About 10 miles southwest of Acres Green, Roxborough State Park is known for its beautiful red rock formations, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
While Acres Green itself does not have many attractions, its convenient location near these popular destinations allows residents and visitors to easily access a variety of recreational and entertainment options.
Climate
Acres Green, Colorado experiences a semi-arid climate. The summers are typically hot and dry, while the winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Here are some specific characteristics of the climate in Acres Green:
Summer (June August)
Summers in Acres Green are warm to hot, with temperatures averaging between 75°F (24°C) and 90°F (32°C). July tends to be the hottest month, with temperatures occasionally soaring above 100°F (38°C). Rainfall during summer is limited with occasional afternoon thunderstorms, contributing to the arid conditions.
Fall (September November)
Fall brings milder temperatures to Acres Green. The average high temperatures range from 60°F (15°C) to 75°F (24°C), while cooler nights dip down to 30°F (-1°C) to 45°F (7°C). There can be some precipitation during this season, but it is generally dry.
Winter (December February)
Winters in Acres Green are cold, with average highs ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 50°F (10°C) and lows dropping between 15°F (-9°C) and 25°F (-4°C). Snowfall is common, particularly in December and January, with an average annual snow accumulation of around 60 inches.
Spring (March May)
Springs in Acres Green are characterized by mild temperatures. Highs range between 55°F (13°C) and 70°F (21°C), while lows can vary from 25°F (-4°C) to 40°F (4°C). Springtime can also bring some precipitation, including rain and occasional snow showers.
Overall, Acres Green features a climate that is typical of a semi-arid region, with hot summers, cold winters, and limited precipitation throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Acres Green is a small unincorporated community located in Douglas County, Colorado. It is primarily a residential area, and while it may not have a wide variety of distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, it does have a few notable areas within its boundaries.
Acres Green Village
This is the central area of Acres Green and is considered the heart of the community. It is characterized by a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings. The neighborhood features well-maintained green spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails. It is located close to schools, shopping centers, and other amenities.
Spring Valley Ranch
Located towards the northern part of Acres Green, Spring Valley Ranch is a well-established neighborhood consisting of larger, single-family homes. The houses are often situated on spacious lots, offering a more suburban feel. Spring Valley Ranch is known for its quiet streets, beautiful views, and a more upscale atmosphere.
Stonegate
Technically located just outside of Acres Green, the Stonegate neighborhood is adjacent to its southeastern boundary. Stonegate is a planned community with a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It offers various amenities such as parks, swimming pools, and a clubhouse. Stonegate is known for its strong sense of community and regularly hosts neighborhood events.
Acres Green Park
While not a traditional neighborhood, Acres Green Park is a prominent feature of the community. It is a large green space with sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths. The park serves as a gathering place for residents of Acres Green and nearby neighborhoods, providing opportunities for recreational activities and outdoor relaxation.
Overall, Acres Green is a relatively small and close-knit community with a mix of residential areas. While each neighborhood may have its own distinct characteristics, the community as a whole offers a peaceful suburban environment with easy access to essential amenities.