Why are Denver Lakes Disappearing? Plus, Blucifer on Hulu and Disneyland on Colorado Boulevard

CityCast Denver explores the disappearance of Houston Lake in Athmar Park, a beloved neighborhood landmark now dried up due to a combination of drought, sediment buildup, and the early shutdown of its supplemental water source, the Salisbury lateral. The hosts, Bree Davies, Paul Caroli, and Michelle Jackson, reflect on the broader implications of water scarcity in the West, framing water as 'gold' and discussing Denver's historical reliance on aggressive water infrastructure. They also delve into Denver's growing role in science fiction narratives, highlighting how shows like Hulu's 'Paradise' use Colorado as a post-apocalyptic refuge, drawing on the region's isolation, rugged terrain, and Cold War-era institutions like NORAD. The episode examines the cultural mythos of Colorado as a blank slate and fortress, referencing works by Stephen King, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Justin Cronin, while also addressing the controversy around the pop culture portrayal of Blucifer, the iconic public art piece, and its unauthorized use in 'Paradise'. The segment concludes with lighthearted mailbag discussions on NWSL attendance challenges and the humorous 'Walt Disney Office Park' nickname for an RTD station complex, underscoring how local identity is shaped by both real and imagined narratives.