BOULDER, CO – A major flood mitigation project that has been years in the making officially cleared a key legal hurdle last month.

On June 10, 2025, a Boulder County judge dismissed a lawsuit aimed at blocking construction on the South Boulder Creek Flood Mitigation Project.

City officials and residents alike are watching closely as the multi-million dollar initiative enters its next phase.

The project, which has sparked local debate for more than a decade, aims to protect approximately 2,300 residents and over 260 structures located in one of Boulder’s most flood-prone areas.

With a budget of 66 million dollars, the city will construct a network of detention basins, concrete spillways, and redirection channels to prevent future floodwaters from inundating nearby neighborhoods.

While some environmental groups raised concerns about the potential impact of the project on local wildlife habitats, the court’s decision effectively gives Boulder the green light to proceed.

Construction bids are expected to open this summer.

Rising Risk Amid Changing Climate

For longtime residents, the news is welcome.

Memories of the devastating 2013 floods still linger, when heavy rainfall overwhelmed infrastructure and caused widespread damage across the county.

Since then, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events have increased, putting more homes and families at risk.

“Boulder is doing the right thing by investing in long-term protection,” said Megan Ellis, a local hydrologist. “But these projects take time. Residents cannot afford to wait.”

Vulnerable Homes Face Ongoing Threats

Even as construction moves forward, experts caution that the community remains vulnerable to flash floods, particularly during the active summer storm season.

In fact, temporary changes in land grading during the build-out phase could exacerbate flood risk in adjacent areas.

Mold remediation and basement restoration companies have reported growing demand in recent years.

Hidden water damage often goes unnoticed until it’s too late, affecting structural integrity and indoor air quality.

“We often get calls weeks after a storm, when families start noticing a musty smell or warped flooring,” said a representative from Denver-based Anatom Restoration. “By then, the problem has already spread.”

Steps Boulder Residents Can Take Now

While the city moves forward with infrastructure upgrades, there are immediate actions homeowners can take to safeguard their properties:

• Request a moisture inspection to identify early signs of water intrusion in basements and crawl spaces.
• Maintain gutters and drainage systems to direct runoff away from the home’s foundation.
• Review insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for flood-related damages.

Expert Help Beyond Boulder

Anatom Restoration, headquartered in Denver, serves homeowners across Boulder County with rapid response teams trained in water damage recovery.

During peak storm periods, when local resources are stretched thin, the company provides critical support, from emergency water extraction to complete structural drying and insurance documentation assistance.

“We are proud to support Boulder residents in building more resilient homes,” the company said in a statement.

With the flood mitigation project finally underway, optimism is building. But as local experts emphasize, personal preparation remains key.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

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