The University of Denver’s Ritchie Center is finally dry enough to begin construction to repair the damage .
A spokeswoman for the school said the timing for completion is unclear, but that the school expects the facilities — which host 17 DU programs — to be operational by the fall.
Flooding was caused after foliage from trees on campus was ripped away and debris then clogged drains around campus. The loading dock on the center filled with water, which then pushed through a sliding door and onto the first floor of the center.
DU is working with its insurance company to determine the extent of damage.
The warped wood floors in Hamilton Gym have been removed, and construction workers are expected to replace the floor “any day now.” The concrete below the floors still contains some moisture and needs to be completely dry before beginning the process.
Volleyball and basketball teams will complete summer workouts at Gates Field House until construction is finished. DU’s soccer stadium and outdoor facilities of Diane Wendt Sports Complex are operating on a normal schedule.
The 2015 national champion DU lacrosse team will have a new sub-structure and turf next season after water damage ruined the previous field. Indoor dry wall, rubber matting and carpeting are being replaced too.
Hockey is virtually the only sport unaffected by the damage. The team’s practice and game day arenas reopened the week of flooding and have remained open since.
Cameron Wolfe: cwolfe@denverpost.com or twitter.com/cameronwolfe
