The Town of Pagosa Springs is taking significant steps to improve its aging sewer infrastructure. The Pagosa Springs Sanitation General Improvement District (PSSGID) has announced a public hearing scheduled for June 17, 2026, to discuss proposed upgrades aimed at enhancing the reliability and safety of the town’s wastewater system.
Proposed Sewer System Improvements
The project encompasses three key components:
- 1st Street Lift Station Installation: A new lift station along Highway 160 to improve wastewater management.
- Overflow Vaults and Control Modifications: Enhancements at existing lift stations to provide overflow protection during power outages and emergencies.
- Sanitary Sewer Pipe Replacement: Replacement of Category 4 sanitary sewer pipes on Rosita Street, including manhole and pipe upgrades.
The estimated cost for these improvements is $3,223,000. To finance the project, the PSSGID is preparing a Project Needs Assessment and an Environmental Assessment, which will be submitted to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to qualify for a State Revolving Fund Loan.
Public Participation Encouraged
Community members are invited to attend the public hearing to learn more about the project and provide input. The hearing details are as follows:
- Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
- Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Location: Ross Aragon Community Center, South Conference Room, 451 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs, CO
Remote participation is available via Google Meet: meet.google.com/eiw-rhvs-ube, or by phone at +1 956-704-1217 (PIN: 315 971 878#).
Copies of the Project Needs Assessment and Environmental Assessment are available for public review at the PSSGID office, 551 Hot Springs Blvd., and online at: mypagosa.org/1st-st-lift-station-lift-station-overflow-vaults-and-category-4-and-5-sanitary-sewer-pipe-replacement.
For questions, contact Karl Johnson, Sanitation Capital Projects, at 970-264-4151 ext. 262.
Background on Sewer System Challenges
The town’s current sewer system faces significant issues, with an estimated $80–$100 million needed to address aging pipes, construct a new wastewater treatment facility, and perform other critical repairs and upgrades. These challenges underscore the importance of the proposed improvements to ensure the long-term functionality and safety of Pagosa Springs’ wastewater infrastructure.