Colorado State University Opens Hydro Building

Colorado State University opened the 122,000-sf Hydro building in Denver in January of 2023. Located on the Spur campus, this dynamic nexus of water research and innovation will catalyze the discovery of new solutions to pressing environmental challenges. Hord Coplan Macht and SmithGroup designed the interdisciplinary structure, which houses the Western Water Policy Institute, the Salazar Center for North American Conservation, and a 1,900-sf testing lab for Denver Water. Featuring data analysis and visualization suites, innovation and incubation areas, and labs for teaching and research, the collaborative facility also includes exhibition spaces, a flexible 230-seat theater, a café, and venues for K-12 and professional development programs. JE Dunn broke ground on the project in October of 2020.  

Part of a vibrant destination for education, exploration, and entertainment, Hydro joins CSU's two completed developments on the grounds of the National Western Center. The 114,000-sf Vida building accommodates veterinary and biomedical programs, while the 60,000-sf Terra building focuses on agriculture. The Colorado General Assembly provided $200 million in funding for the three facilities.