South Platte River below Union Avenue at Englewood

Flowing serenely through the heart of Englewood, the South Platte River below Union Avenue whispers stories of a vibrant past. The South Platte River below Union Avenue wasn’t always the tranquil waterway you see today. It has witnessed dramatic transformations, from a life-giving resource for early settlers to a neglected dumping ground, and finally, to the revitalized river corridor we appreciate now. The South Platte River played a pivotal role in Denver’s very existence. The city was founded in 1858 at the confluence of the South Platte and Cherry Creek. The river provided essential water for the burgeoning town, sustaining its growth in those early years. As Denver expanded, so did its demands on the river. Wells were dug, and later, the city’s water source shifted westward into the Rocky Mountains. Sadly, the South Platte River below Union Avenue and other sections of the river within Denver suffered a period of severe neglect. During the late 19th and much of the 20th century, the river became an “open sewer,” polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and even discarded cars. The river’s ecosystem suffered greatly. It posed health risks to humans and wildlife alike. Thankfully, this bleak era didn’t last forever. Public awareness grew, and efforts to clean up and restore the South Platte began. The Greenway Foundation played a significant role in the river’s rehabilitation. Today, the South Platte River below Union Avenue has rebounded remarkably. While challenges remain, the river is a testament to the power of community effort and environmental stewardship. The river flows through Denver, past communities like Brighton and Fort Lupton, and eventually joins the North Platte River in Nebraska. It has supported agriculture in the otherwise arid plains of Colorado. The river is formed by the confluence of the South Fork and Middle Fork, southwest of Denver in South Park. From there, it carves a path through Platte Canyon and Waterton Canyon. The South Platte River below Union Avenue isn’t just a body of water. It represents resilience, the interconnectedness of urban environments and nature, and the ongoing story of Denver and its surrounding communities. As you stand here, by the revitalized waters of the South Platte River below Union Avenue, take a moment to appreciate its journey.