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Homepage Link Projects South Suburban Reservoir Dam Repairs

South Suburban Reservoir Dam Repairs

April 2024 - Fall 2025

Aerial satellite map of the South Suburban Reservoir and the trails surrounding it. The trails on the south end of the dam are bolded in red and read "closed" on the southwest corner of the reservoir, there is a zone labeled "construction staging area."

We are nearly finished with repairs to the outlet of the South Suburban Reservoir Dam in Stratton Open Space.

The integrity of the dam remains intact, and water service for our customers has not been affected during construction. However, the dam's outlet must function properly to ensure we can continue to move water from the reservoir to treatment.

Some trail sections near the reservoir are closed for public safety due to construction equipment in these areas (see map). Please be mindful of construction vehicles traveling on N. Cheyenne Canyon Road in the Stratton Open Space while repairs are underway. The repairs are expected to be completed in November 2025.

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Reservoir no longer open to public and dogs

Once repairs are complete, the reservoir will not reopen to the public.

For periods over the last two decades, it has been opened to the public during warmer months for access to its western shoreline. Informal recreational activities developed over time, including off-leash dog recreation. 

We made this difficult decision to address growing safety concerns and water quality issues. The South Suburban Reservoir stores raw (untreated) water and plays an important role in our local water system. 

We appreciate your understanding. We encourage you to continue visiting Stratton Open Space to enjoy its many trails and rich scenery.

Learn more about the decision here

Project timeline

• April 2024: The issue was discovered during an internal dam inspection. Reservoir access closed to the public.

• April - May 2024: Reservoir drained. All released water was accounted for and traded to downstream users to ensure the best use of supplies. 

• August 2024:  Construction design completed and submitted to the State of Colorado Engineer Office for approval.

• January 2025: Required construction plan revisions completed and approved.

• April 2025: Construction started. 

• Fall 2025: Anticipated construction completion.

• Spring 2026: Reservoir to refill and return to service. It will not reopen to public access.

*The project timeline has changed due to required plan revisions, weather and supply chain delays.

Questions or concerns may be directed to (719) 668-7765 or engage@csu.org.

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