Stratton Open Space reservoir closes for the year

Ashley Eberhardt
·2 min read

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — South Suburban Reservoir, located in Stratton Open Space in southwest Colorado Springs, closed for necessary repairs on Friday, April 12, and is expected to remain closed until the end of the year.

The reservoir, which is operated by Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities) and holds drinking water for the community, is a popular hiking destination. It is typically opened to the public in the spring and closes in the fall when temperatures start to drop. However, an issue with an outlet pipe at the reservoir was discovered recently by Springs Utilities’ staff during a routine inspection.

The need for prompt repairs was further confirmed by state dam officials, Springs Utilities said. While the integrity of the reservoir’s dam remains intact, the outlet must be restored to full functionality so that water can continue to be moved from the reservoir to a treatment plant. No trails will be impacted by the reservoir closure.

Stratton Open Space
Courtesy: City of Colorado Springs

The reservoir stores raw water from local watersheds before it is moved to undergo drinking water treatment. Taking it offline temporarily will not impact water service for Springs Utilities’ customers, as other reservoirs in the system can provide the necessary supplies.

“We are fortunate to have redundancy in our water system that allows us to move water from other sources,” said Brian Wortinger, water/wastewater field operations manager for Springs Utilities.

Springs Utilities said the reservoir is slowly being drawn down to prepare for repairs. Its gates closed on Friday, April 12 to ensure public safety and to allow for construction set-up, which will begin over the summer. The public is asked to respect safety perimeters around the construction area.

  • South Suburban Reservoir in Stratton Open Space
    Courtesy: City of Colorado Springs
  • South Suburban Reservoir in Stratton Open Space
    Courtesy: City of Colorado Springs
  • South Suburban Reservoir in Stratton Open Space
    Courtesy: City of Colorado Springs
  • South Suburban Reservoir in Stratton Open Space
    Courtesy: City of Colorado Springs

“We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work to return South Suburban Reservoir to service,” Wortinger said.

Springs Utilities said due to the nature of the repairs, it is unlikely the reservoir will re-open to the public in 2024.

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