Wheat Ridge City Council adopts comprehensive stormwater master plan to prevent flooding

Wheat Ridge City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing the city's stormwater management by adopting a comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan during their meeting on May 12, 2025. This plan, the first major update since 1979, aims to address flooding risks and improve water quality across the city.

The newly approved plan outlines a series of capital projects designed to prevent flooding of private properties and enhance the existing stormwater infrastructure. The total estimated cost for these projects is approximately $16 million, which includes five major initiatives aimed at upgrading the storm sewer system. These projects will focus on critical areas such as 30 Second Avenue, Independence Street, and 40 Fourth Avenue, where existing systems are outdated and inadequate to handle current and future stormwater flows.

Public Works Director Maria DeAndrea highlighted the importance of this plan, noting that much of the stormwater infrastructure was installed between the 1940s and 1970s and is now reaching the end of its operational life. The plan not only addresses immediate flooding concerns but also aims to reduce pollution and protect natural ecosystems.

In addition to the capital projects, the council discussed the need for a stormwater utility fee to fund ongoing maintenance and improvements. This fee would help support the estimated $51.5 million required over the next decade to fully implement the stormwater program. The city is currently soliciting proposals for a stormwater rate analysis to determine the appropriate fee structure.

The council's decision to adopt the Stormwater Master Plan marks a proactive approach to managing Wheat Ridge's stormwater challenges, ensuring that the city is better equipped to handle heavy rainfall and protect its residents and properties from flooding. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can expect improvements in stormwater management and overall community resilience.