Agenda Date: 06/07/2016
Subject:
Title
A resolution authorizing an agreement regarding funding of a conceptual plan to repurpose a portion of the High Line Canal for stormwater collection, treatment and conveyance of treated stormwater to vegetation adjacent to the canal.
Body
Presented By:
Mark Relph, Public Works and Utilities Director
POLICY QUESTION:
Does city council support an intergovernmental agreement to fund a conceptual plan to repurpose a portion of the High Line Canal for possible stormwater improvements?
BACKGROUND:
The High Line Canal is an irrigation and water supply canal meandering through Littleton from about C-470 to South Grant Street. It is owned and operated by Denver Water, who diverts water from the South Platte River and delivers it to customers in the metro area. Denver Water is considering a change to its operations that may include discontinuing the canal for irrigation and water supply; in part, due to excessive water losses caused by evaporation and seepage. The canal was the historic water source to fill Ketring Lake.
The Urban Drainage and Flood Control District (UDFCD), along with many local governments, completed the High Line Canal Feasibility Study for Stormwater Runoff Reduction and Treatment in August, 2014. The study determined it may be possible to collect stormwater runoff within portions of the canal. This water may be passively treated and utilized to support the diverse vegetation, wildlife and other uses along its banks.
It is proposed to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with UDFCD to prepare a conceptual plan to utilize the canal for stormwater collection and treatment. This plan would be focused on providing treated stormwater to vegetation adjacent to the canal, but it also may identify additional opportunities in the general area.
UDFCD would manage the project with Littleton assistance.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The High Line Canal is not efficient for water conveyance; however, the water losses to see...
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