Project Overview

Boulder’s wastewater system protects public health and keeps our creeks clean. It includes hundreds of miles of underground pipes that carry wastewater from homes and businesses to the city’s Water Resource Recovery Facility, where it is treated before being returned to the environment.

The city regularly evaluates system condition and performance to identify and prioritize needed improvements. The Goose Creek Trunk Sewer Replacement is one of four high-priority projects identified in the City’s 2016 Wastewater Collection Master Plan.

Construction Update

Construction begins in early November 2026

Phase 2 of the Goose Creek Trunk Sewer Replacement is expected to begin in early November. Work along East Pearl Street is expected to continue through May 2027.

As construction progresses, East Pearl Street will close in phases and the Goose Creek multi-use path near the project area will be temporarily closed. Access to area businesses will be maintained.

A detour map, impacts and additional travel information will be available on Cone Zones before construction begins.

What’s Happening

This project will replace approximately 2,600 feet of aging, corroded 30-inch concrete sewer pipe with a new plastic pipe. The replacement pipe will be installed at a slightly steeper slope to improve performance during significant rainfall events.

This segment conveys approximately 25% of Boulder’s wastewater to the Water Resource Recovery Facility. Replacing it addresses known condition and capacity issues and reduces the risk of failure.

Location

Work will occur along East Pearl Street from 47th Street east to the end of Pearl Street near the multi-use path.

Map: Work will occur along East Pearl Street from 47th Street east to the end of Pearl Street near the multi-use path.

Timeline

Phase 1: Completed in 2021

Phase 2: Construction is expected to begin in early November 2026, with work along East Pearl Street continuing through May 2027.

Construction is planned during the winter due to the proximity to the Goose Creek flood channel. Lower flow conditions during this time reduce flood risk.

Construction and Impacts

Construction will use open-cut methods, with crews excavating along the pipeline alignment to remove and replace the existing pipe. Wastewater will be temporarily routed through above-ground bypass piping, which will be continuously monitored to maintain sewer service.

What to Expect:

  • Phased road closures on East Pearl Street within the project area
  • Temporary closure and detour of the Goose Creek multi-use path near the project area
  • Construction equipment and crews in the area
  • Noise, dust and other typical construction impacts
  • Continued access to area businesses

Environmental Considerations

Prairie dogs within excavation areas will be passively relocated in accordance with city practices prior to construction.

Related Documents