Goldsmith Gulch Stormwater Project
Goldsmith Gulch flows through southeast Denver, where it plays a key role in managing stormwater. Areas like Bible Park and Iliff Stormwater Basin have long helped reduce flooding, but challenges remain—especially near Iliff Avenue, where floodwaters can overtop the road and impact nearby properties.
Guided by recent planning efforts such as the Near Southeast Area Plan (2023) and Goldsmith Gulch Major Drainageway Plan (2020), this project will explore upgrades to improve stormwater detention, enhance park spaces, and strengthen trail connections. It will also evaluate the potential to open sections of the downstream segment to improve safety, flow, and community access. This concept design phase will take place over approximately 24 months, with future phases to follow.
Project Subareas
This project is focused on reducing flooding in neighborhoods along Goldsmith Gulch, especially near Iliff Avenue. The City and County of Denver and the Mile High Flood District are exploring improvements in three connected areas:
Bible Park plays a key role in managing stormwater along the Gulch
Bible Park plays a key role in managing stormwater along the gulch. During heavy rain events, it helps hold back water and reduce flooding in nearby streets and homes. We're exploring ways to:
- Detain more water during major storms to reduce downstream flows
- Reduce flood risk while enhancing community space
- Improve water quality runoff from the park
Iliff Stormwater Basin helps manage floodwater downstream of Bible Park
While it detains some stormwater during major storms, larger events can still overflow Iliff Avenue and impact nearby properties. We're exploring ways to:
- Improve basin drainage
- Enhance the area for community benefits
- Reduce operation and maintenance costs
The downstream segment carries stormwater underground from Iliff Avenue to north of Evans Avenue
Because the area is highly developed, major changes aren't likely soon. However, we're exploring future possibilities like opening parts of the pipe into a natural stream, which could:
- Improve safety and maintenance
- Support more natural water flow
- Add beauty and open space to the area