As a prominent member of the Denver and Lakewood communities since 1931, Credit Union of Denver can't help but marvel at the other iconic organizations and landmarks that have stood the test of time alongside us. We're proud to have grown with our beloved home, and we applaud all who have adapted and thrived in an era of constant change. So, with that in mind, let's take a trip down memory lane and explore some of your favorite local landmarks.
Denver Federal Center
Did you know that the Credit Union of Denver once called the Denver Federal Center home? But let's talk about the Center's own fascinating story. During World War II, it was the Denver Ordnance Plant, a bustling hub of ammunition production that employed over 22,000 people at its peak. Post-war, the site transformed into the Federal Center we know today, welcoming federal offices and labs in 1945 and quickly becoming an economic driver for Lakewood. Today, it continues its tradition of fostering important federal projects, from defense to energy conservation, all while housing roughly 28 federal agencies across its 50+ buildings.
Colorado State Capitol
Officially constructed in 1894, our capitol building was designed to echo the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. while staying true to its Colorado roots. Ever notice how it gleams in the sunlight? That's because the dome is gilded with real gold—straight from a Colorado mine! This detail serves as a tribute to our state's deep Gold Rush history. Inside, the ornate exterior gives way to polished floors made from Colorado's state rock, White Yule Marble, which you'll find under your feet throughout the building.
Casa Bonita
After World War II, Lakewood began to grow rapidly, and new infrastructure followed. For instance, the Spotswood-McClelland Wagon Line was transformed into what is now West Colfax Avenue. This new convenience led to shopping centers popping up everywhere in the 1950s, including the JCRS shopping center, which has been the home of Casa Bonita since 1973. This iconic landmark has recently had new life breathed into it with a $40 million redesign, spearheaded by the creators of the Colorado-based show, South Park.
Denver Union Station
Since its initial construction in 1881, Denver Union Station has been a living, breathing part of the Mile-High City. Designed by D.H. Burnham & Co. in the elegant Beaux-Arts style, it once boasted impressive details like terrazzo floors and Columbine motifs. Of course, as train travel became a thing of the past, Union Station had to adapt, or risk being forgotten forever. Luckily, it did far more than survive. Today, it’s a bustling, modern hub for trains, light rail, and buses, all while housing some of the city's most popular restaurants and bars.
Populus at Civic Center Park
More recently, a 13-story, 265-room hotel called Populus opened in Downtown Denver in October 2024. You can't miss its striking white exterior and distinctively round windows. But this design is more than just eye-catching; it's contributing to our state's sustainability in a big way. The hotel's unique structure, along with its promise to plant 70,000 trees, reflects Denver's commitment to creating the best possible living environment for its residents and visitors.
Denver International Airport
Welcoming over 82.4 million passengers in 2024 alone, our airport is in a league of its own. When it was built in 1995, the tall white peaks of the terminal were made from the largest structurally integrated tensile roof on Earth. And, as you're probably well aware, the airport is currently under a $1.8 billion expansion to increase its size and redesign security. The project is helping keep our airport in shape to functionally and swiftly support the growing number of travelers now and for many years to come!
As we reflect on these incredible landmarks, from the historic Union Station to the innovative Populus, we're reminded of the enduring spirit of our community. Just as these structures have adapted and thrived, so has the Credit Union of Denver, and so will our city. This shared history is what makes our community so special, and we are proud to be a part of it, committed to growing with you for many more years to come.