Denver Water has decided to move forward with the construction of its $531 million project to raise Gross Dam despite facing ongoing litigation that could potentially disrupt the massive reservoir expansion. Utility leaders emphasize the importance of this project for ensuring future water security.
A federal appeals court has granted Denver Water permission to proceed with construction until further notice while it reviews the lower court’s order that initially halted the project. The utility, serving 1.5 million people in the metro Denver area, is eager to begin pouring concrete for the new section of the dam at the earliest opportunity.
Although construction crews have been called back to work following the court’s directives, Denver Water CEO Alan Salazar acknowledges the challenges and uncertainties that still loom over the project.
With more than two decades invested in its development, the Gross Reservoir expansion project is now at a critical juncture, caught between legal proceedings and the physical progress of a half-built, half-billion-dollar dam.
The project, which aims to significantly increase water storage capacity in Denver Water’s system, is crucial for maintaining water supply reliability and resilience. Once completed, the expanded Gross Reservoir will nearly triple its capacity to 120,000 acre-feet, becoming the utility’s second-largest reservoir and the tallest concrete dam built in the U.S. in over 50 years.
Despite opposition from environmental groups who argue for less damaging alternatives, Denver Water remains steadfast in its commitment to the project. The utility has already invested $450 million in construction costs and is prepared to address any further delays that may arise due to ongoing litigation.
Denver Water’s leaders are confident in the environmental mitigation efforts undertaken for the project, including stream restoration and land transfers to offset the impacts of the reservoir expansion. They stress the project’s importance in enhancing water storage and system redundancy, especially in the face of past disasters like extreme drought and wildfires.
While critics question the necessity and cost-effectiveness of the project, Denver Water maintains that the reservoir expansion is essential for meeting future water demands and ensuring system reliability. The utility’s ratepayers will bear the financial burden of the project, with annual increases expected to cover the costs of construction and operation.
As the legal battle continues, both sides are at odds over the timing and implications of the ongoing litigation. Denver Water defends its decision to proceed with construction, citing the need to meet regulatory deadlines and address water supply challenges in a timely manner.
Despite the uncertainties and challenges ahead, Denver Water remains committed to completing the Gross Reservoir expansion project and securing a sustainable water future for the region.
