Highlands Ranch Metro District
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Stormwater Management
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Stormwater management is an important component of the Metro District’s public works services. Stormwater is collected through pipe systems from streets and then conveyed through the open space drainage ways. These drainage ways provide flood control and water quality enhancement of stormwater. These open space corridors are home to wildlife and are the backbone of our open space trail system. In light of these multiple uses, the corridors must be protected from the effects of increased storm flows, erosion, pollution and other impacts of urbanization. The Metro District’s Public Works staff takes a proactive approach to stormwater management by balancing these various demands.
The Metro District is a non-standard MS4 stormwater permit holder with CDPHE, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. The permit was renewed in 2021 with a five-year term. The Metro District is also a member of the Colorado Stormwater Council, a state-wide organization of permittees, and is a member of CLEAR, the Douglas County stormwater group. The CLEAR organization also cooperates and shares resources to meet permit requirements.
The Metro District has a master plan for restoring and improving the drainageways in the open spaces in Highlands Ranch. This work is done in conjunction with Mile High Flood District, who participates in funding and managing these projects.
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit
As a non-standard MS4 general permit holder, the Metro District will implement programs to reduce stormwater pollutants and comply with Phase II Regulations of the Clean Water Act. The plan for doing this is outlined in the MS4 Program Description Document (PDD), which is available for public review and comment. Request a copy of the PDD, or submit any questions or comments by emailing info@highlandsranch.org.
Current Project Updates
Dad Clark Gulch Channel Stabilization
Construction is expected to begin in December 2025 on the stabilization of Dad Clark Gulch from Summit View Parkway to Wildcat Reserve Parkway. The Highlands Ranch Metro District, in conjunction with Mile High Flood District, has designed improvements in Dad Clark Gulch as part of the Metro District Stormwater Master Plan. The goals of this plan are to restore, stabilize, improve, and protect the drainage ways in our open space.
Click here to read more details about this project.