This week's headlines

The path of Delta's future roadway is taking shape as city crews have been hauling away debris, removing buildings and trees, and marking easements. "We are making solid progress along the route while we work to wrap up negotiations and coordination efforts with various agencies," said Jim Hatheway, public works director and Confluence Drive project manager.

Currently the city is working with Union Pacific Railroad on several details, including a property exchange agreement, overpass construction and maintenance agreements, and upgrades to the crossing at Highway 348. The city is also working with the Army Corps of Engineers on wetland mitigation; with CDOT on permits, right of way plans, and improvements to US 50; and with property owners to finalize remaining right-of-way negotiations.

Although everyone is anxious for construction to begin, the expanded timeline has allowed for several improvements and refinements to the project. The Palmer Street crossing will now be a signalized intersection instead of an overpass, reducing construction costs while providing better traffic flow between heavily used areas. A water quality pond will be added to Confluence Park to filter runoff from Confluence Drive, 5th and 2nd streets, before it enters the lake and river. A 12-acre parcel of land was obtained along the route that could possibly provide future public access to the Uncompahgre River. The railroad crossing at 348 will be upgraded with new concrete pads and signals.

Work is continuing currently, with several building slated for removal in the coming months including the cannery, the buildings at the former Agricultural Services location, and other structures along the route. Additional upcoming projects include utility relocation work and wetlands construction.

"Even if it means pushing back the date to break ground, it is important to have as many issues resolved, and concerns addressed as possible to run the project as efficiently as we can," stated Hatheway, while explaining that the actual road construction will now likely begin in the fall.

"Confluence Drive creates significant opportunities for our community," said Hatheway, "we are making an investment now in Delta's future."

Photos, news updates and a current map of the route can be found at www.confluencedrive.com.

• < Prev
• Next >