Community demands urgent action on flooding crisis

In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding flooding and drainage issues in the Fairmount area, particularly affecting homeowners near the orchard at 48th and Fig. Residents have reported persistent flooding, leading to costly mitigation measures such as sump pumps, with some pumps operating nearly year-round. The rising water table is also suspected to be causing foundation damage to homes.

A speaker emphasized the urgent need for Jefferson County (Jeffco) to implement a master drainage plan, which has been stalled due to funding issues. The speaker pointed out that developers have historically contributed to public infrastructure improvements and suggested that they could similarly fund necessary drainage upgrades. For instance, their company is investing $5 million in culvert and stream improvements as part of a development project.

The discussion highlighted the inadequacy of the current drainage system, which relies on an 18-inch culvert that is already operating at near capacity. With numerous developments planned in the area, the speaker warned that the existing infrastructure would not suffice to handle increased water flow, potentially exacerbating flooding issues.

Concerns were also raised about the lack of oversight on new developments, with claims that the Mile High Flood District has not reviewed recent projects in the Fairmount drainage area. The speaker urged the county to halt all current and future developments until the master drainage plan is finalized and implemented, arguing that the community deserves responsible development practices.

In conclusion, the speaker called for immediate action to address the drainage problems, including the potential upsizing of the culvert to accommodate future developments, emphasizing that such measures should be in place before any new construction begins. The community's frustration with the slow progress on these critical infrastructure issues was palpable, as residents seek assurance that their homes and safety are prioritized.