Yesterday, the NM Project Decision Committee (PDC) for the Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) met to discuss the Catwalk Access Road project. During this meeting, the decision was made by all parties to abandon the NM 159 alignment coming off of Whitewater Mesa. Moving forward, the design team will evaluate improvements to NM 174 that include minor widening, replacement of the existing low water crossings, the addition of concrete low water crossings at side drainages, and hardening of the roadway embankment along the creek.

I anticipate our survey crew mobilizing to the site in the coming weeks to complete topographic survey of the existing alignment, such that preliminary design efforts can proceed over the winter months. I would also anticipate a preliminary design field review in the spring of 2017. Please let me know if you have comments or questions. Take care.

Justin Henwood, P.E. | Project Manager | 720-963-3432 | justin.henwood@dot.gov