Spenard, Anchorage facts for kids
Spenard is a lively neighborhood in Anchorage, Alaska, United States. It used to be its own city, separate from Anchorage. Even today, Spenard feels like its own special community. People there celebrate "Spenardi Gras," which is a big party. This event helps everyone feel connected and proud of their neighborhood.
Spenard is known for being a place where artists and writers gather. You can find many poetry events and fun bicycle parties here. It's a creative and unique part of Anchorage. The main road through the area is called Spenard Road. It starts near the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and goes north. The road ends near Westchester Lagoon, close to downtown Anchorage.
Spenard's Past: How It Began
Before 1975, Spenard was actually a city by itself. Some people think it might even be older than Anchorage! Anchorage started as a camp for building the Alaska Railroad. Spenard, however, began as a place where people cut down trees for wood.
The road connecting the lumber camp to Anchorage was named Spenard Road. It was named after a man named Joe Spenard. He owned the lumber camp. Joe Spenard also built a dance hall and resort by Spenard Lake. It was very popular for a short time before it burned down. From its early days, Spenard was the place where people from Anchorage went to have fun and relax.
| Historical population | |
|---|---|
| Year | Pop. |
| 1950 | 2,108 |
| 1960 | 9,074 |
| 1970 | 18,089 |
Getting Around Spenard: Transportation
There are plans to build new homes and shops along Spenard Road. This is especially true near 36th Avenue. These new buildings will make it easier for people to use public transportation.
To help with this, Spenard is part of the "frequent network" for the People Mover bus system. The #40 bus runs every 15 minutes on weekdays along Spenard Road. On weekends, it runs every 30 minutes. There is also the #65 bus, which runs once an hour. This bus takes people to the Dimond Center Mall.
