History
Decades of Progress
Founded by McCulloch Properties, Inc., Pueblo West was a vision of a modern, but planned 26,000 acre community that would be nestled in unspoiled natural surroundings at the base of southern Colorado's front range. This new "opportunity city" for 60,000 people was designed to combine spacious country living with a light industrial economy and and abundance of recreation opportunities - in conjunction with the Bureau of Reclamation's $235-million Fryingpan-Arkansas project.
1960's
On September 16, 1969, evolving from a vast open field of cactus and rattlesnakes, the Pueblo West Metropolitan District became a quasi-municipal subdivision, created pursuant to the Metropolitan District Law adopted in 1947 by the Colorado Legislature, Article 3 of Chapter 89, Colorado Revised Statutes.
Chairman of the board of the parent McCulloch Oil Corporation, Mr. Robert P. McCulloch, Sr., constructed the Pueblo West Inn to host and entertain investors and guests, most of whom had flown in from around the country to purchase land in the fresh Rocky Mountain air.
1970's
By 1974, Pueblo West's own newspaper, the Pueblo West News, reported on the District's fifth anniversary that more than 2,000 people had moved into Pueblo West, and that Pueblo School District 70 had opened Pueblo West Elementary that fall, with 200 children enrolled.
Lovell Park, dedicated in 1976, offered a spectrum of activities from softball to tennis, and a new swimming pool large enough for competition.
The National Horseman's Arena, the South Equestrian Center and the Pueblo West Golf and Tennis Club were providing recreation opportunities and Aspen Skiwear anchored the light industrial park, employing 150 people.
1980's
Within twenty years, Pueblo West had grown to a population of 4,500 residents, warranting the need for speed limit signs, on the few paved thoroughfares, and recreational facilities for sports enthusiasts.
Pueblo West Middle School was built in 1982, and a 7,000 rail spur provided an avenue for development prospects in the North Industrial Park.
1990's
Rapidly growing, Pueblo West's population boomed during the 1990's creating a fast-paced housing and real estate market. Due to the increase of students, several elementary schools were built, and Pueblo West High School opened its doors in 1996. Businesses found dedicated customers and set the standard for shopping centers and large-scale commercial and industrial operations.
2000's
The new century continued to offer citizens quality neighborhoods, outstanding recreational activities, and top-notch schools with the addition of Skyview Middle school and a paved 2.3 mile trail along McCulloch Boulevard. Fire Station 3 was built to serve residents on Pueblo West's north side.
The District agreed to participate in the historic Southern Delivery System, a project to supply water from Pueblo Reservoir to Colorado Springs.
Today
The approximate 28,500 residents of today's Pueblo West enjoy the moderate temperatures and high percentage of yearly sunshine that come with this unique geographic area, filled with great schools and diverse neighborhoods, expansive views and community pride.
