Denver Water commences massive water pipe replacement in Littleton
- Denver Water is currently replacing more than 3,300 feet of aging water pipes along Main Street.
- The project started in early February and will take about two months, occurring overnight to minimize disruption.
- Local businesses are facing parking challenges and a decline in customers, but they remain open for business.
In early February 2025, a significant infrastructure project began in Downtown Littleton, Colorado. Denver Water initiated the replacement of over 3,300 feet of old water pipes on Main Street, which is crucial for preventing potential breaks in the underground pipe system. This construction is part of a broader plan that includes another significant initiative known as Project Downtown, aimed at further improvements in the area. The first phase of the pipe replacement focuses on the section from South Sycamore Street to Rapp Street, expected to take approximately two months. The work is planned to minimize disruptions, taking place overnight from Sunday to Thursday between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. Local businesses are already experiencing the effects of the construction, which presents multiple challenges. Amber Hamman, the owner of Kate's Wine Bar, highlighted the necessity of the project while acknowledging its negative impact during what is typically their busiest month. While some patrons continue to come for happy hour, the number of diners has dwindled. Parking limitations are compounding the issue, as customers find it difficult to access the bars and restaurants in the area. Although the underground work is critical to prevent serious damage to the water infrastructure, it is disrupting the usual flow of business on Main Street. Denver Water aims to inform the community that all businesses in the area remain open during the construction. Local owners like Hamman and other business representatives are urging patrons to visit their establishments despite the ongoing work. They stress that the construction is still manageable and walkable, and they hope to encourage more people to make the effort to patronize the businesses operating during these challenging conditions. Representatives from Denver Water have assured residents and local businesses that the underground work is essential due to the aging pipes and is being conducted as carefully as possible to mitigate the impact on the bustling Downtown Littleton area. Overall, this water pipe replacement project is a necessary undertaking that, although it poses immediate challenges to local merchants and their patrons, is intended to foster a more reliable water system for the community in the long term. The combination of these infrastructure improvements with Project Downtown promises to enhance the livability and functionality of Downtown Littleton once the dust settles and business returns to its usual rhythm.