Summertime is construction time for the city of Durango. As the mayor, I understand that this can lead to frustration for our residents, given the delays caused by the ongoing road projects around town. I want to take this opportunity to explain why these projects are necessary, the challenges we face, and address some of the feedback we have received from residents.
First, it is essential to recognize that our construction season typically occurs in the summer due to the harshness of our winters. Last year was unusually warm, but we must plan for ongoing snow and freezing temperatures from November through April. This typically leaves contractors with about six months to complete the work, which is not much time when a road is being completely rebuilt and includes excavation, utilities, sidewalks, new bike paths, median landscaping, storm drainage, and asphalt.
Due to this condensed time frame, we usually have several projects underway simultaneously during the summer. There have been some requests to start one project only after the previous one is finished, but that would delay projects for years, driving up costs and allowing substandard services to continue unnecessarily.
Additionally, Durango's remote location presents unique challenges in obtaining materials. Unlike major metropolitan areas, contractors do not always have immediate access to a wide range of suppliers. Simple items, such as gravel for road base, are not always readily available. Asphalt plants shut down in winter. Custom pieces need to be ordered. This is a trade-off for living in a beautiful location away from the hustle and bustle; it takes longer to get materials.
And when it comes to infrastructure, in some places ours is more than 130 years old. During one recent repair, we discovered a water pipe downtown that was installed in 1892. Updating such aged infrastructure is a complex and time-consuming process. There are always unknowns that arise once excavation begins, from unexpected utility lines and “temporary” repairs from decades ago, to car-size boulders that must be dug out and removed. These unforeseen challenges can cause delays and require careful handling.
It is also essential to address how the city is managing these projects. We have equipment for repairs and maintenance of our infrastructure, but we hire out for larger projects because it's a more efficient use of taxpayer money. We have dedicated project managers who monitor the progress of each project, working closely with the contracted companies on a weekly basis. This information is then shared with the public through various channels, including our Financial Advisory Board, which consists of private citizens, to ensure transparency and keep residents informed.
The good news is all projects underway – including the rebuilding of County Road 250/251 and North College Drive – are expected to be complete by the end of the year, except for the College Drive reconfiguration. Because of the late start, that project will have new curbs and sidewalks installed this year, but paving will take place in 2026.
While the construction may be inconvenient now, it is essential to remember that these improvements will lead to a stronger, more efficient infrastructure for our city. The result will be a more efficient, safer, and more beautiful Durango that benefits everyone. The difficulties we face are part of the charm of living in an area known for its natural beauty and distance from major urban centers.
We are committed to keeping our community informed and addressing any concerns that arise promptly. To stay informed about the status of these projects, please consider signing up for the NotifyMe service on our website, durangoco.gov, and subscribing to News Flash. In addition to general city news, subscribers will also receive our Orange Cone Report, a weekly update on our road projects.
I appreciate the patience and understanding of all our residents as we work through these necessary projects. Together, we can look forward to a brighter future with improved infrastructure that will serve our community for generations to come. Thank you for your continued support.
Gilda Yazzie is the mayor of Durango.
