Press Releases

DENVER—U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) announced that the City of Golden will receive a $23.8 million grant from the Department of Transportation (DOT) to control flooding in Lena Gulch. This funding comes following a joint letter of support to the DOT sent by Pettersen and Colorado Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, as well as Representative Joe Neguse (CO-02) last August. Lena Gulch runs along US 40, and poses threats to residential and commercial properties, as well as emergency response capabilities. The project will install culverts, stabilize eroding channels, add safety signage, fill sections with rocks and natural materials to improve water flow during flooding events, and construct a flood attenuation facility with park and recreation spaces. 

“Floods and other natural disasters have the potential to completely uproot families, destroy businesses, and damage infrastructure,” said Pettersen. “I’ve been fighting to protect our communities from damaging floods and other natural disasters since coming to office, and I’m thrilled that we were able to secure funding for such an important project that will protect families and businesses along Lena Gulch, while still prioritizing sustainability and access to outdoor recreation spaces.” 

“Lena Gulch plays a crucial drainage role in Golden, Colorado and presents a significant flood risk to our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Representatives Pettersen and Neguse and Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper for supporting this project and securing the PROTECT grant funding,” said Laura Weinberg, the Mayor of the City of Golden. “These much-needed funds will help safeguard important roadways, commercial properties, and affordable housing communities from the devastating effects of flooding. This project is another step forward in Golden's climate resiliency efforts and we appreciate the federal partnership to protect our community.

In addition to this grant, Pettersen also championed a community project through the House of Representatives for flood prevention efforts in Lena Gulch, which was signed into law by President Biden last month. In total, her 15 community projects will deliver $14 million directly into Colorado’s 7th Congressional District and impact communities across the area. Pettersen has also introduced and signed onto numerous bills to protect Coloradans from disastrous flooding and other extreme weather events.