The preferred action in a draft environmental assessment for the proposed Durango-La Plata County Airport terminal expansion is estimated to cost $131.5 million at full build-out with additional parking and improved road access.

The public was invited to review these plans and ask questions Wednesday at the county administrative building.

The preferred action proposes expansion on the runway’s east side, and it is the least expensive. A costlier option does not allow for future growth.

Plans include expanded 1,500 parking spaces and five new aircraft parking positions.

The assessment process began in October and is slated for completion in November 2017. The design process for the proposed terminal is expected to begin in 2018 after the environmental assessment is complete.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2021.

In a joint meeting Monday between county and city officials, consultants disclosed that wetlands, possible endangered species habitats and cultural and historical resources stand to be disturbed by the proposed terminal expansion on the runway’s east side.

“When building, we try not to change the drainage patterns,” said Colleen Cummins, project manager for consulting firm Jviation, which is overseeing the process. “If there are wetland impacts, we coordinate with the Army Corps of Engineers, which would have to issue a permit.”

This summer, environmental consultants plan to investigate whether proposed construction would disrupt southwestern willow flycatchers or New Mexico jumping mice, both endangered species.

Native and cultural historical resources are also suspected on land where the terminal would be built.

A traffic study to assess congestion on Colorado Highway 172 and county roads 209, 209A and 338 near the airport will be conducted in May and June.

A second public open house on the environmental assessment will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Abel F. Atencio Community Room at Ignacio Town Hall, 570 Goddard Ave., Ignacio.

jpace@durangoherald.com