A federal judge has blocked Denver Water from further construction on the expansion of a Boulder County reservoir due to environmental law challenges. U.S. District Court Senior Judge Christine M. Arguello criticized Denver Water for starting construction despite these challenges. Arguello recognized the need for some additional construction to stabilize the current structure but was unclear on the extent of the work required, leading to a hearing with engineers.
Denver Water expressed concerns about the decision, calling it radical, and indicated they will appeal the order. The expansion of the Gross Reservoir and Dam is intended to provide more water for Denver Water’s customers but has faced opposition from environmental groups challenging the project under the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. The Corps of Engineers had issued a permit for the project in 2017 but was found to have eliminated alternatives and not adequately considered climate change impacts in a 2023 decision.
Arguello’s order to block further construction was influenced by the violations of environmental laws by the Corps and the lack of thorough analysis regarding climate change impacts. The case is ongoing, with experts set to determine the necessary steps to ensure the safety of the dam. Denver Water’s hasty start to construction despite warnings from challengers has been criticized, leading to uncertainty about the future of the project.
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