Golden Gate Canyon State Park – Wastewater System Upgrade
The Golden Gate project sits high in the mountains of Gilpin County, surrounded by pines, steep slopes, and unpredictable weather. CGRS was selected to complete a full wastewater treatment and effluent field upgrade for Reverend’s Ridge Campground inside Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
The existing system had reached the end of its life and required a complete rebuild. CGRS managed the project from start to finish, including excavation, treatment system upgrades, electrical improvements, and final restoration—maintaining environmental standards throughout every phase.
Scope of Work
CGRS’s scope included the demolition and rebuilding of key treatment components, installation of new process equipment, and construction of four engineered effluent treatment fields. Each field was carefully graded, lined, and built with layers of sand and infiltration chambers to ensure proper flow and long-term stability.
Inside the Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) building, CGRS replaced outdated systems with new pumps, valves, and process piping. Electrical work included new conduit runs, disconnects, and panels, along with full SCADA integration to tie all systems together.
The team also improved the lagoon and lift station areas, replacing aging infrastructure and upgrading controls for more efficient wastewater management. Throughout construction, erosion control, access maintenance, and environmental protection were constant priorities given the sensitive mountain terrain.
Project Challenges & Completion
Working in Golden Gate Canyon brought its share of challenges. Afternoon storms were frequent, forcing the team to adjust schedules and rework areas impacted by heavy rain. Despite these conditions, CGRS maintained steady progress through careful planning and adaptability. Field crews adjusted to changing site conditions by re-scarifying and compacting soils, managing runoff, and keeping work areas clean and stable. Each phase was completed to meet design specifications and inspection requirements.
When complete, the upgraded system will provide Reverend’s Ridge with a modern, reliable wastewater treatment solution that protects groundwater and supports the park’s growing use. The Golden Gate project highlights CGRS’s ability to deliver complex infrastructure in challenging environments. From excavation to final commissioning, the team provided a comprehensive, compliant, and resilient wastewater system designed to perform for years to come.
