Growing Up in Fort Collins
When Streetlights Were Our Curfew and the World Felt Safer
I was born in 1971 at Poudre Valley Hospital, back when Fort Collins was a quieter town nestled against the Rockies. Growing up, my world revolved around the simple joys of childhood: riding my bike to Rolland Moore Park, splashing at Village Green Pool, and fishing along the Poudre River. Summers were filled with crayfish hunting at Horsetooth Reservoir and neighborhood crawdad boils that brought everyone together.
Growing up in Fort Collins From the 80’s to Now
Back then, our biggest worries were scraped knees and getting home before the streetlights flickered on. We roamed freely, our adventures only limited by our imaginations. Hunting trips for ducks, geese, and deer were rites of passage, teaching us responsibility and respect for nature.
Fast forward to today, and the landscape feels different. Children’s playdates are meticulously planned, and GPS trackers monitor their every move. The freedom we once took for granted seems like a relic of the past.
Is the World More Dangerous?
But is the world truly more dangerous now, or have our perceptions shifted?
Looking at the data, Fort Collins’ crime rates have fluctuated over the years. In 1990, the violent crime rate was 434.1 per 100,000 people. By 2018, it had decreased to 233.11 per 100,000. Property crimes have seen similar trends. Despite these statistics, the fear of crime seems more pervasive than ever.
Media’s Effect
While it’s essential to ensure our children’s safety, it’s equally important to allow them the freedom to explore and learn from their experiences. After all, it’s through these adventures that we develop resilience and a sense of independence.
Finding the Balance Between Freedom and Caution
Reflecting on my childhood growing up in Fort Collins, I cherish the unstructured play, the connection to nature, and the community bonds that shaped me. Perhaps by finding a balance between caution and freedom, we can offer our children the same enriching experiences.
Let’s not let fear dictate our lives. Instead, let’s foster environments where our kids can create their own cherished memories, just as we did.
Note: Crime statistics sourced from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program and local records.
Considering a move to or out of Northern Colorado? Reach out to The Weinland Team with RE/MAX Alliance. We’re here to help with all your real estate needs.
Written by Nathan Weinland, leader of the Weinland Team at RE/MAX Alliance
Phone: (970) 690-4088
Email: Sales@TheWeinlandTeam.com
Written by fortcollinsexperience
More From This Category
Valentine’s Day Date Night Ideas in Northern Colorado
5 Northern Colorado Valentine's Day Date Night Ideas Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean fighting for reservations or settling for the same dinner you’ve done every year. Northern Colorado makes it easy to plan a night that feels intentional, relaxed, and memorable....
Valentine’s Day Date Night Ideas in Northern Colorado
5 Northern Colorado Valentine's Day Date Night Ideas Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean fighting for reservations or settling for the same dinner you’ve done every year. Northern Colorado makes it easy to plan a night that feels intentional, relaxed, and memorable....
Valentine’s Day Date Night Ideas in Northern Colorado
5 Northern Colorado Valentine's Day Date Night Ideas Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean fighting for reservations or settling for the same dinner you’ve done every year. Northern Colorado makes it easy to plan a night that feels intentional, relaxed, and memorable....
0 Comments