(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities) said repairs are needed for a transfer pipe along the bottom of Mason Reservoir, and parts of the South Slope Recreation Area (SSRA) will be closed.

According to Springs Utilities, the pipe is along the bottom of the reservoir and connects Mason Reservoir to nearby McReynolds Reservoir, and is how water is moved from one reservoir to another. In November 2024, an issue with the pipe was discovered, but snow and ice necessitated waiting until warmer weather to fully assess the issue.

The reservoir will need to be drained to allow Springs Utilities to complete a condition assessment and plan repairs. Recreation and fishing in Mason Reservoir will still be available, but will be closed to the public once the water falls below safe access levels as it is drained.

The SSRA is managed by the City of Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain. Access to the SSRA is by permit only, and only 20 vehicles are allowed per day. Springs Utilities said access will be increased from three to four days per week.

Permits are available for purchase Thursday through Sunday, with purchases opening on May 29, weather permitting. Daily permits are $20 and will be reduced to $15 per day when Mason Reservoir closes.