Why El Paso County and Colorado Springs Have a Higher Population Compared to Denver County and Denver
El Paso County and Colorado Springs have generally maintained a higher population compared to Denver County and Denver, which can be attributed to a variety of factors. Let's delve into the key reasons behind this phenomenon, identifying the impact of federal employment, military bases, and expansion potential.
Federal Employment and Economic Growth
Several high-profile employers in the area contribute significantly to the population density in El Paso County and Colorado Springs. Among the most prominent are:
The Federal Bureau of Prisons operates the Florence C-2 Sub-County Complex, a super-max prison, which serves as a major employer in the area. A large Army base, Fort Carson, which plays a crucial role. The base and its adjacent training areas offer extensive employment opportunities for both military and civilian personnel. The recent addition of a new Air Force base to the east of Colorado Springs, which contributes to ongoing economic growth and workforce demand in the region.The Impact of Military Bases
Military bases, particularly those hosting large-scale operations, significantly boost the local economy through job creation, resident family population, and local spending. For instance:
Fort Carson, a major U.S. Army post located in Colorado Springs, is home to over 30,000 active-duty personnel and over 100,000 military and non-military associates. The base not only provides direct employment but also spurs the growth of neighboring communities, including Larkspur, through the services and support infrastructure that develop around military bases.These bases contribute to a steady workforce, as long as successive administrations avoid the drastic base closures and consolidations seen in the 1990s, which led to significant job losses and population shifts in areas previously reliant on military presence.
Open Area for Expansion
Economic growth and population increases are also facilitated by the availability of open land for development. Compared to Denver, Colorado Springs and El Paso County offer more extensive land areas that are ripe for expansion, which helps to support residential and commercial growth. For example:
Fort Carson and the AFA (Air Force Academy) North of Colorado Springs provide large expanses of open space, allowing for growth without the same constraints faced by Denver.The availability of undeveloped land is crucial for accommodating new residents and businesses, thus driving further population growth.
Demographic Trends and Local Amenities
Demographically, El Paso County and Colorado Springs also offer additional appeal to potential residents. Key factors include:
Strong family-oriented communities, with many households choosing to live near these bases and military installations due to the stability and tight-knit community associated with military life. Closer living arrangements for spouses and potential children, enhancing the family environment and making the area more attractive to military families in particular.These factors contribute to a higher population density, which in turn drives local economic growth and infrastructure development.
Conclusion
In summary, the higher population levels in El Paso County and Colorado Springs can be attributed to a blend of federal employment opportunities, especially in the military sector, the presence of open areas for development, and strong demographic preferences for living in areas with military bases. These factors have historically supported substantial population growth, creating a vibrant and expanding community.