~ The City of Colorado Springs and its Stormwater Enterprise have been awarded two federal grants totaling $700,000 to support restoration efforts in the Fountain Creek Watershed. These grants, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), will directly contribute to the implementation of the COS Creek Plan.

The Fountain Creek Watershed is the most populated and fastest-growing watershed in the state of Colorado. With an increase in population and development in the area, there is a growing need to protect this vital water source. Since 2000, portions of Colorado Springs located in the watershed have seen a 37% increase in population. Currently, the watershed provides approximately 15% of the city's drinking water supply and also serves as an important agricultural water source for farmlands in southeastern Colorado.

Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade expressed excitement about receiving not one, but two WaterSmart grants for restoration work along Fountain and Monument creeks. These projects are crucial to the COS Creek Plan, a collaborative effort between Pikes Peak Waterways, Colorado Springs Utilities, and the City of Colorado Springs. The mayor stated that these projects align with their ongoing efforts to maintain and improve natural and manmade infrastructure to accommodate growth and enhance the vibrancy of their city.

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The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has awarded Pikes Peak Waterways $300,000 to develop a water strategy for the Monument Creek corridor in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs. This strategy aims to improve water quality, restore damaged areas, and support wildlife. It will also address challenges such as erosion, sediment buildup, and impacts from recent wildfires to ensure that this vital watershed continues to benefit surrounding communities.

In addition to this grant, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has also awarded $400,000 to the City of Colorado Springs for restoration work on a 1.5-mile stretch of Fountain Creek Basin. This project, in partnership with Pikes Peak Waterways, will focus on creating a healthier stream system and improving recreational access for the community.

Governor Jared Polis of Colorado expressed his support for these grants, stating that they will help one of the state's most populated watersheds continue to provide clean and clear water for hardworking people in El Paso County and downstream communities. The Office of the Governor provided grant writing assistance to secure the $300,000 grant for the Monument Creek Water Strategy.

The work supported by these grants is scheduled to begin in summer 2025. With this funding, the City of Colorado Springs and its partners are committed to preserving and protecting the Fountain Creek Watershed for future generations.

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