Alma, Colorado, is at the center of a significant water infrastructure project as plans move forward to expand Montgomery Reservoir, potentially doubling its capacity. This initiative, led by Colorado Springs Utilities, seeks to modernize aging infrastructure and better capture water resources in response to the increasingly dry conditions in the West.
Maria Pastore, a Water Resource Planner with Colorado Springs Utilities, emphasized the importance of the project: “It is nearly 70 years old. So, it will also help meet our water management needs by addressing current storage capacity constraints that we have.” The reservoir, constructed in 1957, is a crucial component of the Continental-Hoosier System, a transmountain network that transfers water from the Blue River basin to Colorado Springs.
While the expansion promises enhanced water storage, it also raises concerns about potential impacts on the popular recreation area near Alma. Pastore addressed these concerns, stating, “We understand that to be very important to the community up there. Those public benefits, the hiking, the fishing, off-road access, those will all remain the same once construction is complete.”
The project is currently in the permitting phase, with applications for local, state, and federal approval expected this year. If approved, construction could begin as early as 2028 and continue into the early 2030s. Colorado Springs Utilities has committed to maintaining regular communication with the community, ensuring that residents are informed and involved throughout the project’s progression.
As Alma navigates this development, the town’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and recreational opportunities remains evident. The balance between enhancing essential infrastructure and maintaining the community’s cherished outdoor spaces is a testament to Alma’s dedication to its residents and environment.