Starting in January, work will commence on the Old Hampden infrastructure project in downtown Englewood's Wellness District, with completion expected by late 2025.

Victor Rachael, Englewood’s director of public works, explained that the Old Hampden project aims to upgrade aging infrastructure along Old Hampden from Clarkson Street to Broadway.

“We’re focusing on replacing and upgrading old water and stormwater pipelines to make the system more reliable and resilient,” Rachael shared. “These improvements are especially important for the Wellness District, which includes Craig Hospital, Swedish Medical Center, and the surrounding businesses and residents.”

The infrastructure updates are designed to reduce the risk of water main breaks and flooding.

The city’s website notes that many of Englewood’s water and sewer pipes, constructed in the 1950s, are nearing the end of their lifespan. As a result, addressing this issue was prioritized in the city’s master plan in 2020.

The city identified three critical infrastructure upgrades: the potential addition of a larger storm sewer outlet to Little Dry Creek, the replacement of a portion of the sewer line that carries wastewater from east of Broadway to a treatment facility, and the rehabilitation and replacement of the Clarkson and Hampden Booster Pump Station and Old Hampden water mains.

Rachael also highlighted that this utilities project will lay the groundwork for future above-ground improvements to streets and sidewalks, which are part of the separate Old Hampden Complete Streets project.

Funding for the utilities improvements comes from multiple sources, including various Public Works divisions, federal and state funds, and the City’s Public Improvement Fund for the preliminary design of the Complete Streets project.

“It’s a big step forward for our community, and we’re excited about the long-term benefits for everyone who lives, works, or visits here,” Rachael said.

For more details on the project, visit bit.ly/OldHampden.