Denver Water
Coverage of Denver Water in the Nexus archive.
- Centennial water main break closes all southbound lanes of S. University Boulevard
A water main break has closed all southbound lanes of S. University Boulevard, with traffic diverted to E. Kettle Avenue. Denver Water crews are en route for repairs, and the cause remains undetermined.
- Denver Water: Residents meeting conservation goals, but more savings needed
Denver Water reports residents are meeting 20% water reduction targets amid drought, but usage remains near the five-year average as reservoir levels sit at 78%, below typical levels. Officials urge continued conservation under Stage 1 restrictions to avoid stricter measures, citing record heat and dry conditions in 2026.
- Denver and Aurora aren’t hitting their water goals — but they’re not panicking either
Denver and Aurora are not meeting their 20% water reduction goals amid drought conditions, with Denver Water reporting 1,300 acre-feet of savings instead of the target 10,300. Both cities have implemented Stage I water restrictions but are not yet planning stricter Stage II measures, though Aurora’s mayor warned of potential imminent changes. Reservoir levels are significantly lower than usual, with Denver at 78% capacity and Aurora at 52%.
- Warnings, fines coming after Denver Water receives 3K watering violation complaints
Denver Water has received 3,000 complaints about watering violations and is issuing warnings and potential fines. Additional watering restrictions may be imposed if reservoir levels continue to decline.
- Piney River Ranch faces uncertain future as lease expiration looms
Piney River Ranch, a popular public retreat and wedding venue near Vail, Colorado, faces an uncertain future as its 15-year lease with Denver Water expires in March 2027. Denver Water has stated it may not renew the lease long-term, citing retired water rights and standard land-use reviews, while the ranch's operator, Monique Busold, argues short-term leases hinder the business's viability.
- Colfax Avenue floods after water main break
A water main break in Denver's Congress Park neighborhood caused flooding on Colfax Avenue, disrupting construction workers and leaving 22 residences without water for six to eight hours. Denver Water confirmed the burst 6-inch cast-iron pipe at 1442 Clayton St. and stated repairs are underway.
- Colorado declares statewide drought emergency
Colorado Governor Jared Polis declared a statewide drought emergency due to record-low snowpack and prolonged warm temperatures, activating phase three of the state's drought response plan. The declaration aims to secure additional funding and resources to address water shortages impacting agriculture, utilities, and recreation sectors, with 93% of the state experiencing drought conditions.