By order of Sheriff Darren Weekly, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in place for unincorporated areas of Douglas County. Ordinance No. O-012-004 restricts open fires, open burning and the use of fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Douglas County.
By order of Sheriff Darren Weekly, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in place for unincorporated areas of Douglas County. Ordinance No. O-012-004 restricts open fires, open burning and the use of fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Douglas County.
Commissioner advocacy delivers major investments in local water security
Posted on January 29, 2026 2026News and Events
Two critical water projects in Douglas County will receive federal funding this year.
On Jan. 23, President Donald Trump signed the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act into law, securing funding for a drinking water project in Louviers and a new pipeline to move water from Plum Creek to Rueter-Hess Reservoir.
The $2.75 million allocation is a direct result of federal engagement by the Board of Douglas County Commissioners in Washington, D.C., last year.
“As Commissioners, we know the impact that federal advocacy can have on our communities,” said Commissioner George Teal, Board Chair. “We are proud to see our collaboration with legislators in Washington pay off and have real benefits for the residents of Douglas County.”
“While water security is of the utmost importance, this funding has an even greater meaning to Douglas County,” said Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle. “It is an investment in the future well-being of our community.”
The approved funding will support the following projects:
Louviers Water & Sanitation District Drinking Water Distribution Replacement ($1 million in federal funding approved)
This project will replace approximately 12,000 feet of aging galvanized steel pipe, 86 service lines, and 15 fire hydrants in Louviers. The existing system is deteriorated and undersized, creating risks to water quality and fire protection.
These improvements will provide residents with cleaner drinking water, increase system reliability, and enhance fire flow capacity. The project also supports broader regional efforts to strengthen drinking water and wastewater infrastructure across Douglas County.
Louviers Water & Sanitation District is the recipient of this funding.
The Plum Creek to Rueter-Hess Reservoir Pipeline ($1.75 million in federal funding approved)
This project includes construction of a transmission pipeline and pump station to deliver water from Plum Creek in Castle Rock to the Rueter-Hess Reservoir in Parker. Once completed, the pipeline will serve more than 200,000 residents and support Castle Rock’s transition from non-renewable groundwater to a more sustainable water supply.
Castle Rock Water is the recipient of this funding.
“Castle Rock Water appreciates the advocacy of the Douglas County Commissioners, as well as the support of Parker Water, both of which helped us secure this funding,” said Town of Castle Rock Mayor Jason Gray. “This $24 million project will allow excess renewable water in Plum Creek be pumped to Rueter-Hess Reservoir, ultimately benefiting customers in Castle Rock and other parts of the county.”
“The projects made possible by this funding will have far-reaching impacts for our residents,” said Commissioner Abe Laydon. “Thanks to the federal funds our Board had the responsibility and honor to advocate for, communities across Douglas County will have greater confidence in their long-term water security.”
Each year, local governments can apply for funding through the offices of their Congressional Representative. In 2025, Douglas County requested and advocated for funding through Congresswoman Lauren Boebert for projects to improve water infrastructure and sustainability in our community. Learn more about their advocacy on our webpage.
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