Cleave Street Improvements

To help ensure that your specific concerns and questions can be efficiently addressed, please reach out directly to the Town staff or utility contacts designated below. 

Town of Estes Park Public Works

Jamin Rucker, Civil Engineer & Primary Town Contact | jrucker@estes.org | 970-577-3736
Jeff Bailey, Town Engineer | jbailey@estes.org | 970-577-3586

Weekly email communication sign-up: Contact Lani McDonald, Administrative Assistant | lmcdonald@estes.org | 970-577-3587

Town of Estes Park Power & Communications

Tyler Boles, Line Crew Supervisor | tboles@estes.org | 970-577-3607

ABC Asphalt

Cesar Gonzalez, Project Manager | cesar@abcasphaltco.com | 720-768-8688

January 3, 2025

Another week of holidays, as well as high winds, slowed progress on the final utility relocations. On January 3, it was discovered that CenturyLink/Lumen has aerial infrastructure in place that has yet to be removed. This work should be completed next week. PW staff also reached out to representatives of TDS asking for an updated timeline for their final removals, as this work was not completed this week as expected. After both CenturyLink/Lumen and TDS are finished, the utility poles can be removed. 

Again, the holiday and inclement weather combined to minimize progress this week. Due to the weather, ABC's surveyors were not able to provide necessary information regarding subgrade elevations until January 3. PW staff will review this information early next week prior to the proof-rolling mentioned last week that will establish the limits of subgrade stabilization needed in order to allow for the placement of pavement base material. Ground Engineering and PW staff have almost finalized the plan for subgrade stabilization so excavation work may be completed in that area. Measurements were taken on the location and elevation of the CenturyLink duct bank as far as it has been exposed at this point in time. Remediation of this issue is expected soon after funding is approved by CenturyLink for their contractor, Pauley Construction.

ABC plans to continue fine grading next week where feasible, outside of the area of unsuitable soils. Colder temperatures and possible snow could slow progress, but with the holidays over, work is expected to now follow a more normal schedule as weather allows.

December 27, 2024

This was a slow week due to weather and the Christmas Holiday. The remaining overhead utilities are communication lines and should be removed as soon as TDS Telecom is finished tying-in their new underground services, which is expected to be complete by January 3. After that work is complete, the utility poles can be removed. 

Again, the holiday and inclement weather combined to minimize progress this week. ABC did work on December 21 and, prior to that, worked to improve access for a resident who was relocating and for a business owner who needed to temporarily remove and replace a trailer on their property. ABC hopes to have the project surveyed next week to confirm whether the appropriate subgrade elevation has been established. Following that, the subgrade will be proof-rolled to establish the limits of subgrade stabilization needed in order to allow for the placement of pavement base material. The proposed method of stabilization of the unsuitable subgrade areas mentioned last week is still under development, but a final decision is expected next week. We also expect to know more, by the end of next week, regarding the status of the duct bank issue and are confident that CenturyLink/Lumen will be responsive to the project needs.

ABC plans to be working on a limited basis this Saturday, December 28, to remove snow and reset traffic signage and construction fencing that was disturbed during the recent high winds. Working hours for construction over the weekend days will be 8am-3:30pm.

If any business owner or resident has experienced hardship associated with trash removal, ABC Asphalt will assist in relocating WM dumpsters to the open area of the street. Affected business owners and residents need to confirm, with ABC Asphalt, their permission regarding relocation of their dumpster(s) and are also responsible for contacting WM to reinstate their trash collection service.

December 20, 2024

This week, The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews removed their overhead lines. The remaining overhead utilities are communication lines and should be removed as soon as TDS Telecom is finished tying-in their new underground services, which is expected to be complete by January 3. After that work is complete, the utility poles can be removed. 

In the process of excavating soil to get the existing roadway down to the proposed grade, a large section of unsuitable material was encountered. This soil is incapable of being adequately compacted and is the reason for the additional soil removal taking place along the south side of the roadway between the Sandwich Mafia and the former Old Church Shops. The large amount of recently relocated underground utilities in that area are also slowing the process of removing the unsuitable soil. The Town’s geotechnical consultant is currently developing alternatives to “bridge” the unsuitable areas with geotextile materials so that a suitable base for the new roadway can be achieved. Fortunately, favorable temperatures this week and ABC’s blanketing efforts have greatly lessened the frost conditions in the subgrade. Another, impending issue is that a buried, concrete encased CenturyLink duct bank that runs the length of the corridor appears to be shallower in some locations than was indicated by previous utility location efforts. This is a very new issue, and everyone is moving quickly to determine the extent of the problem and how best to address the situation. Updates will be forthcoming as new information becomes available.

ABC plans to be working on Saturday and Sunday, December 21-22, to make up for delays and to progress as much as possible ahead of the approaching holidays. The subgrade challenges have delayed the start of the concrete work and irrigation installation. Working hours for construction over the weekend days will be 8am-3:30pm. 

At the November 1 Public Meeting, a second Public Meeting was proposed for the middle of December. This meeting was intended to coincide with the contractor's transition to the west half of the street. Due to unforeseen delays over the last several weeks, work will continue on the east half of the street for some time. Public Works anticipates hosting the second public meeting in January, when the timeline of the transition to the west half is known more accurately.

Public Works staff communicated with several owners and tenants this week about private trash removal, and the inability of Waste Management (WM) to provide service on Cleave Street at this time. To help ease this burden--once P&C finishes their work--ABC will modify the traffic control and road closure areas to allow full access to the west side of Cleave Street. The hard closure will remain in place at the rear of 157 West Elkhorn, as well as intermittent closures of portions of the Big Horn parking lot. If any business owner or resident has experienced hardship associated with trash removal, ABC Asphalt will assist in relocating WM dumpsters to the open area of the street. Owners and residents need to confirm their permission for any dumpster relocation with ABC Asphalt, and would also be responsible for contacting WM to reinstate their trash collection service.

Residents and business owners have expressed concerns about coordinating move-out/move-in efforts with the ongoing road work in the coming weeks, particularly at 133 West Elkhorn, due to a recent ownership change. Public Works staff and ABC Asphalt are committed to helping make these transitions as smooth as possible. We encourage those with frontages on West Elkhorn to do as much work as they are able to without utilizing Cleave Street. If moving operations require vehicular access to Cleave Street, please inform Cesar Gonzalez, Jon Erickson, and Jamin Rucker as soon as you have a confirmed date and time you need access, and let them know the details of your individual needs. For moving operations of those using the West Elkhorn frontage, Public Works offers the loading zone between 109 and 129 West Elkhorn for loading and moving needs of tenants at 133 West Elkhorn.

ABC will provide clear pedestrian access at necessary locations as the project progresses, and as directed by Public Works staff as different needs arise. If you require access that differs from what is being provided at any given time, please reach out to Cesar Gonzalez, Jon Erickson, or Jamin Rucker as early as possible, and every effort will be made to accommodate your needs.

December 13, 2024

This week, The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews finished trenching for individual electric services and the last pedestrian light pole. Next week they will begin switching these services over to the new underground power. Limited power outages are scheduled for Monday through Wednesday. If work goes well and according to plan, removal of the overhead lines could begin mid- or late next week. Additionally, Trailblazer Broadband will be splicing new service connections next week. The fiber outage required for this work will take place from 11pm on Monday, December 16, through 11am on Tuesday, December 17. 

An excavator in need of repairs was removed from the project site on December 9. The replacement equipment delivered on December 10 also needed minor service before its use, which caused a delay of work until December 12, when crews quickly resumed operations. Work continued December 12-13 on prepping the subgrade.  Frost removal continues, and crews have begun scarification and recompaction.

ABC will be working on Saturday and Sunday, December 14-15, to make up for delays and to progress as much as possible ahead of the approaching holidays. For the week of December 16, the plan is to install the heating elements for the eastern portion of the concrete pan and begin pouring concrete for the pan and curb walls. This work is contingent on Public Works approving the subgrade preparation, and the schedule is subject to change. Installation of irrigation lines is also expected to begin later in the week. ABC will conduct weekend work again December 21-22. Working hours for construction over the weekend days will be 8am-3:30pm. 

At the November 1 Public Meeting, a second Public Meeting was proposed for the middle of December. This meeting was intended to coincide with the contractor's transition to the west half of the street. Due to unforeseen delays over the last several weeks, work will continue on the east half of the street for some time. Public Works anticipates hosting the second public meeting in January, when the timeline of the transition to the west half is known more accurately.

Public Works staff communicated with several owners and tenants this week about private trash removal, and the inability of Waste Management (WM) to provide service on Cleave Street at this time. To help ease this burden--once P&C finishes their work--ABC will modify the traffic control and road closure areas to allow full access to the west side of Cleave Street. The hard closure will remain in place at the rear of 157 West Elkhorn, as well as intermittent closures of portions of the Big Horn parking lot. If any business owner or resident has experienced hardship associated with trash removal, ABC Asphalt will assist in relocating WM dumpsters to the open area of the street. Owners and residents need to confirm their permission for any dumpster relocation with ABC Asphalt, and would also be responsible for contacting WM to reinstate their trash collection service.

Residents and business owners have expressed concerns about coordinating move-out/move-in efforts with the ongoing road work in the coming weeks, particularly at 133 West Elkhorn, due to a recent ownership change. Public Works staff and ABC Asphalt are committed to helping make these transitions as smooth as possible. We encourage those with frontages on West Elkhorn to do as much work as they are able to without utilizing Cleave Street. If moving operations require vehicular access to Cleave Street, please inform Cesar Gonzalez, Jon Erickson, and Jamin Rucker as soon as you have a confirmed date and time you need access, and let them know the details of your individual needs. For moving operations of those using the West Elkhorn frontage, Public Works offers the loading zone between 109 and 129 West Elkhorn for loading and moving needs of tenants at 133 West Elkhorn.

ABC will provide clear pedestrian access at necessary locations as the project progresses, and as directed by Public Works staff as different needs arise. If you require access that differs from what is being provided at any given time, please reach out to Cesar Gonzalez, Jon Erickson, or Jamin Rucker as early as possible, and every effort will be made to accommodate your needs.

December 6, 2024

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews continued finishing service connections and have one remaining pedestrian light to install. P&C has finished installing conduit for TDS, and TDS was able to begin laying their new fiber lines this week. Now that all utility work is nearly complete, the removal of overhead lines and utility poles is scheduled to begin the week of December 16; sometime during that week, a limited duration fiber outage is expected while Trailblazer Broadband splices new connections for existing customers. More information about this outage will be provided next week when the overall schedule is more fully known.

ABC Asphalt began earthwork this week and made good progress removing frost from the subgrade to allow reconditioning of the existing soils. Much of the existing road material will be scarified and recompacted in anticipation of fine grading for the first concrete pours. During the December 5 weekly project meeting, PW staff and ABC addressed communication issues and discussed the need to maintain pedestrian access to residences and businesses that do not have alternative entrances. With construction activity intensifying and becoming more impactful, safety awareness is vital for everyone working, living, or conducting business on Cleave Street. As part of the current reconditioning work, you will often see insulating blankets covering large areas surrounded by construction fencing; these blankets are dangerous to walk on and should be avoided. ABC will provide clear pedestrian access at necessary locations as the project progresses, and as directed by PW staff as different needs arise. If you require access that differs from what is being provided at any given time, please reach out to Cesar, Jon, or Jamin as early as possible, and every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. 

November 22, 2024

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews have finished undergrounding the main electric lines and will continue the last service line connections next week. An issue arose with the location of the transformers set at the rear of 157 West Elkhorn Avenue. These transformers are being relocated today. Removal of overhead infrastructure is anticipated by the end of the month. Given the nearness of their anticipated completion date, the current work area map will not change. 

ABC Asphalt finished installation of rigid insulation over water lines this week. Next week's work will focus on completing concrete removals and beginning excavation work. Delays may occur due the short holiday week and possibility of inclement weather. 

November 15, 2024

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews set transformers at the west end of the street and are beginning final service connections in that area as well. Removal of overhead infrastructure is anticipated by the end of the month. Given the nearness of their anticipated completion date, the current work area map will not change.

ABC Asphalt completed potholing operations on the east end of the street. This work was necessary to determine the depth of additional water service lines in need of insulation. Public Works and Water Division staff met with the contractor to determine the scope of this work, and it is not expected to impact the overall schedule. Next week, insulation will be installed and more concrete will be removed from within the right-of-way to facilitate the initial excavation work in the street. 

November 8, 2024

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews continue undergrounding (trenching and conduit installation). Power crews will continue to work their way westward over the next 2 weeks, when their work should be complete, weather permitting. Given the nearness of their anticipated completion date, the current work area map will not change. 

Inclement weather had a significant impact on ABC Asphalt’s work activities this week, limiting them to utility locating, survey staking, and potholing for the planned excavation and insulation of the existing water services. Next week’s current plan is to finish potholing utilities and begin excavation work by the end of the week. 

November 1, 2024

There were 7 neighbors in attendance at the November 1 neighborhood meeting. We thank them for their time and participation and it was a productive idea sharing session. Town staff and Cesar Gonzalez (contractor ABC Asphalt) went over the construction schedule and explained that, due to the intricacies of concrete construction, the roadway would be inaccessible more often than it would be open. However, it was reiterated that the Town and the contractor are committed to working with the residents and businesses to accommodate their access needs, but we do need to know with as much advanced notice as is possible. To that end, staff presented two primary points of contact for all of your project concerns, access and delivery needs: From the Town Public Works Dept, please contact Jamin Rucker (970-577-3736, jrucker@estes.org) and from the Contractor please contact Cesar Gonzalez (720-768-8688, cesar@abcasphaltco.com). Contacting them will be the fastest path toward getting your needs met and issues resolved. ABC’s project schedule will be added to the project website and reposted whenever it changes due to weather, etc. Another neighborhood meeting will be scheduled for mid-December and will be included in these updates once the date, time, and location are set. 

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews continue undergrounding (trenching and conduit installation). Unfortunately, there were several incidents of impacting other utilities this week, causing communications and water outages. The Power crews were quick to contact the affected utilities, but please do not hesitate to reach out to Jamin or Tyler (contact info below) if you are experiencing a utility outage. We hope that there will be no further occurrences, but there are a large number of utilities in the roadway and it is always a challenge with excavation. Power crews will continue to work their way westward over the next few weeks. 

ABC Asphalt milled the remaining asphalt from the east half of the roadway on Monday and the remainder of the week was spent getting underground utilities located and potholing to confirm the actual depths of those utilities before next week’s excavation work. Next week, the current plan is to excavate above the existing water main to install insulating material to protect the main from freezing once the concrete roadway is installed. This will mean that the roadway will be largely inaccessible due to the large trenches required to complete the work. Removal of existing curb, gutter and sidewalk between the east end of the project and roughly the halfway point of the corridor could also begin, dependent on progress with the water main excavation. As always, the schedule is subject to weather delays. 

The Town has contracted with Empire Management, Inc. for Construction Management services. This work involves serving as a Town representative during the construction process, overseeing construction practices, observing concrete testing, etc. Jon Erickson (970-290-6503, jon@empiremgmt.com) will be on site for at least a few hours each day that construction activities are taking place and he is fully authorized to help resolve any issues that arise during construction. Do not hesitate to reach out to Jon if you are unable to reach any of the other contacts listed in this correspondence. 

October 29, 2024

With the restart of the Cleave Street Improvements project, we would like to take some time to set expectations and discuss how the roadway construction is going to progress over the next several months. Please join us for a neighborhood meeting this Friday, Nov. 1, 8:30-9:30am, at the Lumpy Ridge Publick House (203 Cleave Street). Mayor Hall, Town Administrator Michalek, Public Works staff, and ABC Asphalt representatives will all be in attendance to discuss the project and any concerns you may have as we move forward.

We sincerely hope that you will be able to attend. As always, please forward this message as an invitation to any interested parties who may not be on our email list.

October 25, 2024

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications (P&C) crews have resumed undergrounding (trenching and conduit installation) and are making good progress so far. They will continue to work their way westward over the next few weeks. 

ABC Asphalt installed required sediment and erosion control measures this week. Their plan for the week of October 28 is to begin milling the surface of the roadway on Monday to remove all remaining asphalt paving, and then spend the remainder of the week removing existing curb, gutter and sidewalk between the east end of the project and roughly the halfway point of the corridor. 

October 18, 2024

As the project resumes on Monday, October 21, the public is reminded that no parking is permitted in the right-of-way during construction; all vehicles must be removed from the right-of-way by 7am on Monday morning. With paid parking ending on October 20, all Town parking lots are now free. The Big Horn lot will remain open as much as possible; however, there will be times when the lot is inaccessible. Prior notice will be given, whenever possible, when the Big Horn lot must be closed. 

Power & Communications (P&C) crews will pick up where they left off in late June 2024. Undergrounding (trenching and conduit installation) will restart in the vicinity of 203 Cleave Street and proceed westward over the next 5-6 weeks, weather permitting. 

ABC Asphalt, Inc. was the selected low bidder for the roadway construction project. Their crews will be on site on October 21 to begin preparations for the installation of the concrete roadway, working from east to west along the corridor in conjunction with the P&C undergrounding operation. One of the first orders of business will be to mill the remaining paved areas in preparation for excavation of the existing roadway. Questions or concerns about the roadway construction may be directed to Cesar Gonzalez, Project Manager (ABC Asphalt, cesar@abcasphaltco.com, 720-768-8688). Residents and business owners will receive introductory correspondence directly from ABC Asphalt.

June 28, 2024

Utility work discontinued on June 28 and will resume October 21, as previously committed by the Town. We expect it to take six weeks this fall, beginning October 21, to finish undergrounding all utilities. Roadway work by the contractor is expected to start December 2.

The decision to postpone the West Elkhorn Avenue paving work eliminated the option to mill the pavement off Cleave Street in June. The Town's Street Division will be working July 1-3 to grade and surface the existing road with recycled asphalt pavement.

Public Works staff made contact with Western State Contracting regarding improper bollard installations at 119 and 121 West Elkhorn Avenue. Western States is currently awaiting direction from NACC and Xcel to provide an alternate solution. More information will be provided when it is available. Questions may be directed to Jeff Christopherson (jeff@ westernstatescontracting.net, 720-835-9058).

June 21, 2024

Progress by P&C crews has slowed due to the presence of solid bedrock in sections of Cleave Street behind the Stanley Chocolate Factory. Work is expected to speed up today and next week if conditions allow. Two of the three locations for new transformers are prepared and ready for installation as soon as the transformers are delivered. Streets and P&C crews continue to water the street to control dust. Next week, trenching will resume in the west portion of Cleave Street as crews make their way toward the last transformer location. 

Western States Contracting has completed all necessary concrete restorations on private property; asphalt patching at the west end of Cleave Street; and concrete bollard installations at the necessary West Elkhorn addresses. 

Once utility work is complete, Public Works staff plan to mill the roadway and place 4” of recycled asphalt pavement along the entire Cleave Street corridor. This will provide a stable and easily maintainable temporary roadway surface until the roadway portion of the project begins in late October. This work is expected to take one week or less, depending on weather conditions.

Public Works staff is working with the contractor to find an alternative timeline for the West Elkhorn paving project, with an anticipated start after October 20. More information will be provided when it is available. 

June 14, 2024

Power & Communications (P&C) crews continue to work westward along Cleave Street, installing conduit and preparing for pedestrian level lighting. They have progressed approximately one half way from the east end of the project and are making preparations to set three transformers as soon as they are delivered to the site. Streets and P&C crews continue to water the street to control dust. Next week, work and trenching will resume in the middle of Cleave Street. 

Western States Contracting has completed all necessary concrete restorations on private property; asphalt patching at the west end of Cleave Street; and concrete bollard installations at the necessary West Elkhorn addresses. 

Once utility work is complete, Public Works staff plan to mill the roadway and place 4” of recycled asphalt pavement along the entire Cleave Street corridor. This will provide a stable and easily maintainable temporary roadway surface until the roadway portion of the project begins in late October. This work is expected to take one week or less, depending on weather conditions.

PW staff is working with the contractor to find an alternative timeline for the West Elkhorn paving project, with an anticipated start after October 20. More information will be provided when it is available. 

June 7, 2024

P&C made good progress this week moving westward down Cleave Street as they continue installing main line conduit and service lines for pedestrian light poles associated with the project. The first of four transformer pads has been poured, beginning in the Big Horn Parking lot. P&C crews await the delivery of the first transformer for installation. As part of this work, expect to see conduit rising above the surface of the roadway in various locations along the north side of the street; they will be clearly marked, and motorists are advised to avoid these locations to prevent possible vehicular damage. In response to raised concerns about fugitive dust, PW staff watered Cleave Street several times this week, and will continue to monitor conditions and take action when necessary. The week of June 10, crews will be in the area behind The Old Church Shops (Now the Stanley Chocolate Factory). 

Western States Contracting has completed all necessary concrete restorations on private property; asphalt patching at the west end of Cleave Street; and concrete bollard installations at the necessary West Elkhorn addresses. 

Once utility work is complete, Public Works staff plan to mill the roadway and place 4” of recycled asphalt pavement along the entire Cleave Street corridor. This will provide a stable and easily maintainable temporary roadway surface until the roadway portion of the project begins in late October. This work is expected to take one week or less, depending on weather conditions.

PW staff is working with the contractor to find an alternative timeline for the West Elkhorn paving project, with an anticipated start after October 20. More information will be provided when it is available. 

May 31, 2024

P&C continues to make progress across the north and south lanes of Cleave Street as crews install main line conduit and service lines for various improvements associated with the project. Excavation and concrete work has begun for a transformer pad located within the Big Horn parking lot. As part of this work, expect to see conduit rising above the surface of the roadway in various locations along the north side of the street; they will be clearly marked, and motorists are advised to avoid these locations to prevent possible vehicular damage. 

Western States Contracting has completed all necessary concrete restorations on private property; asphalt patching at the west end of Cleave Street; and concrete bollard installations at the necessary West Elkhorn addresses (117, 119, 121, 157). Further information will be provided if necessary. 

Public Works staff are planning to mill the roadway and place 4” of recycled asphalt pavement along the entire Cleave Street corridor once utility work is complete. This will provide a stable and easily maintainable temporary roadway surface until the roadway portion of the project begins in late October. This work is expected to take one week or less, depending on weather conditions.

As part of the 2024 Street Improvement Program (STIP) funded through the 1A Sales Tax, Coulson Excavating will be replacing damaged concrete and repaving West Elkhorn starting in early June. Project details can be found in the Town's May 30 News Release.

May 24, 2024

P&C completed the crossing of Big Horn Drive on Tuesday and began trenching on the east end of Cleave Street. Next week, work will continue to alternate between the north and south lanes of Cleave Street as crews install main line conduit as well as service lines for various improvements associated with the project. As part of this work, expect to see conduit rising above the surface of the roadway in various locations along the north side of the street; they will be clearly marked, and motorists are advised to avoid these locations to prevent possible vehicular damage. A map of next week’s work area is linked below. 

Western States Contracting has completed necessary concrete restorations on private property. They are planning to be back on site on Tuesday, May 28, to install protective concrete bollards for the gas services on the following properties: 117 W Elkhorn, 119 W Elkhorn, 121 W Elkhorn and 157 W Elkhorn. 

Public Works staff are planning to mill the roadway and place 4” of recycled asphalt pavement along the entire Cleave Street corridor once utility work is complete. This will provide a stable and easily maintainable temporary roadway surface until the roadway portion of the project begins in late October. This work is expected to take one week or less, depending on weather conditions.

May 17, 2024

P&C made good progress this week installing infrastructure and new conduit through the gravel parking area adjacent to Big Horn Drive. Next week, P&C will cross Big Horn Drive and begin trenching on Cleave Street. Work will be alternating between the north and south lanes of Cleave Street as crews install main line conduit as well as service lines for various improvements associated with the project. During this time, P&C will also be installing conduit for TDS services. More information will be provided about TDS's schedule when it is available. 

Western States Contracting has completed necessary concrete restorations on private property. The remaining asphalt patching at the west end of Cleave Street will be scheduled soon, within the next 2-3 weeks.

Public Works staff is processing a contract with ABC Asphalt for roadway construction to begin on or after October 21.

May 10, 2024

This past week, P&C prioritized power restorations from damaging winds that occurred Sunday and Monday. With better weather in the forecast, and power restorations nearly complete, they plan to return to the east side of Cleave Street to resume work next Monday, May 13. A map showing their intended work area next week is linked below. TDS has finalized agreements with P&C to share a common trench and will be coordinating the installation of their services soon. More information will be provided about TDS's schedule when it is available. 

Western States Contracting plans to be on Cleave Street next Monday, May 13, for concrete restorations. This work is expected to take one day to complete. The remaining asphalt patching will be scheduled soon, within the next 2-3 weeks.

The Cleave Street Improvement Project was re-advertised for bids on April 11. The Town received 3 bids for the project and staff is currently in the process of verifying the qualifications of the low bidder. Construction will begin on or after October 21. 

May 3, 2024

P&C stayed busy this week addressing issues from last weekend's snow event. They will continue work on the east side of Cleave Street next week. TDS is in the final stages of coordinating with P&C for their relocations to be concurrent with P&C's trenching. 

Western States Contracting is the subcontractor that NACC is using for concrete restorations, which are currently scheduled for May 13. This past week they completed roughly 50% of necessary asphalt patching leftover from excavation for the gas main on Big Horn Drive.

The March 25-May 1 relocation work by Pauley Construction is complete. More information regarding these services will be provided if necessary.

The Cleave Street Improvement Project was re-advertised for bids on April 11. The Town received 3 bids for the project and staff is currently in the process of verifying the qualifications of the low bidder. Construction will begin on or after October 21, with substantial completion by April 1, 2025. 

April 29, 2024

P&C finished repairs from the recent wind event and began work on the east side of Cleave Street last week. A map showing their intended work area this week is linked below. TDS continues coordination with P&C for their relocations to be concurrent with P&C's trenching. 

Some concrete restorations are still needed on private property and will be scheduled with those individuals soon by a subcontractor of NAAC Construction. Public Works staff has asked NACC to follow up with their subcontractor for an updated timeline of this work. NACC will also be addressing the settling of several trenches and potholes in their previous work areas.

March 25-May 1

Pauley Construction continues relocations and expects to be largely complete by the end of April. This work is expected to be intermittent and generally less disruptive than the work on the gas main, with no road closures expected to take place at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

The Cleave Street Improvement Project was re-advertised for bids on April 11. The Town received 3 bids for the project and staff is currently in the process of verifying the qualifications of the low bidder. Construction will begin on or after October 21, with substantial completion by April 1, 2025. 

April 19, 2024

Some concrete restorations are still needed on private property and will be scheduled with those individuals soon by a subcontractor of NAAC Construction. Public Works staff has asked NACC to follow up with their subcontractor for an updated timeline of this work. NACC will also be addressing the settling of several trenches and potholes in their previous work areas.

March 25-May 1

Pauley Construction continues relocations and expects to be largely complete by the end of April. This work is expected to be intermittent and generally less disruptive than the work on the gas main, with no road closures expected to take place at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

P&C has made progress on repairs from the latest wind event and will begin work on Cleave Street next Tuesday. Linked below is a map of the intended work area for April 23-26. TDS continues coordination with P&C for their relocations to be concurrent with P&C's trenching.

April 12, 2024

Some concrete restorations are still needed on private property and will be scheduled with those individuals soon by a subcontractor of NAAC Construction. This work, as well as permanent asphalt patching of Big Horn Drive and Lawn Lane (where the old gas main was abandoned), is expected to take place within the next 1-2 weeks.

March 25-May 1

Pauley Construction continues relocations and expects to be largely complete by the end of April. This work is now expected to be intermittent and generally less disruptive than the work on the gas main, with no road closures expected to take place at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Due to last weekend’s high wind event causing damage in other parts of the service area, P&C has been delayed on Cleave Street while they make necessary repairs. Staff will be in and out of the project site on a limited basis until these other, high priority repairs have been completed.  

Due to the utility delays, and the Town's agreement with local residents and business owners to prohibit construction between July 1 and October 20, the project timeline and scope have substantially changed. The Street Improvement Project was re-advertised for bids on April 11, and the bids will be opened on April 25. The revised timeline will have construction beginning on or after October 21, 2024, with substantial completion by April 1, 2025.  

April 5, 2024

Some concrete restorations are still needed on private property and will be scheduled with those individuals soon by a subcontractor of NAAC Construction. This work, as well as permanent asphalt patching of Big Horn Drive and Lawn Lane (where the old gas main was abandoned), is expected to take place within the next 1-2 weeks.

March 25-May 1

Pauley Construction continues relocations and expects to be largely complete by the end of April. This work is now expected to be intermittent and generally less disruptive than the work on the gas main, with no road closures expected to take place at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Public Works staff held a preconstruction meeting this week with P&C staff to discuss their upcoming undergrounding work. P&C expects to move in equipment the week of April 8 and begin work soon thereafter. The work will begin east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward. 

Due to the utility delays, and the Town's agreement with local residents and business owners to prohibit construction between July 1 and October 20, the project timeline and scope have substantially changed. Re-advertising of the Street Improvement Project for bids is tentatively scheduled for April 11.  The revised timeline will have construction beginning in October 2024.  

March 29, 2024

Some concrete restorations are still needed on private property and will be scheduled with those individuals soon by a subcontractor of NAAC Construction. This work, as well as permanent asphalt patching of Big Horn Drive and Lawn Lane (where the old gas main was abandoned), is expected to take place within the next 1-2 weeks.

March 25-May 1

Pauley Construction continues relocations and expects to be largely complete by the end of April. This work is now expected to be intermittent and generally less disruptive than the work on the gas main, with no road closures expected to take place at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

TDS Telecom is still working on the design of their relocated facilities, and the Town is currently trying to get a commitment on when this effort will be complete. Public Works staff will be scheduling a preconstruction meeting next week with P&C and TDS staff to discuss their timelines.

Due to the utility delays, and the Town's agreement with local residents and business owners to prohibit construction between July 1 and October 20, the project timeline and scope have substantially changed. In fairness to the bidders, previous bids have been rejected and the project will be readvertised in the next few weeks in order to better reflect the changing conditions of Cleave Street; the revised timeline will have construction beginning in October 2024. 

March 22, 2024

The new gas main and service line installations have been completed. Some concrete restorations are still needed on private property and will soon be scheduled with those individuals by a subcontractor of NAAC Construction. This work, as well as permanent asphalt patching of Big Horn Drive and Lawn Lane (where the old gas main was abandoned), is expected to take place within the next 2-3 weeks.

March 25-May 1

Pauley Construction continues relocations and expects to be largely complete by the end of April. This work is now expected to be intermittent and generally less disruptive than the work on the gas main, with no road closures expected to take place at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

TDS continues the design of their relocations (expected to take another 1-2 weeks). The schedule for the P&C and TDS combined relocations remains under discussion and we hope to have an update within the next 2 weeks. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Public Works continues discussions with the low bidder regarding scheduling of the roadway and amenity construction portion of the project. Since the completion date of all utility relocations remains uncertain, subcontractors of the low bidder have not yet provided an update on cost estimates and availability for a new timeline. More information will be provided as it becomes available. 

March 15, 2024

March 18-22, 2024: Finish service installation. Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize. Status: 90% complete (delayed by two weeks from original schedule). The winter storm halted progress this week. Two service connections remain, and the contractor plans to return mid-week on March 20 with a target date of March 22 for completion.

March 11-22, 2024: Splice new lines and services. Status: Delayed by one week from the original schedule. The winter storm halted progress this week. Contractor plans to return the week of March 18 to complete splicing.

March 25-April 5, 2024: Remove overhead infrastructure/clean-up/de-mobilize.

Public Works held a meeting this week with TDS Telecom and Power and Communications (P & C) to discuss scheduling and collaboration concerning the overhead infrastructure relocation of both parties. TDS will design their relocations and schedule their work to be concurrent with P & C trenching. More information will be provided as it becomes available. P & C staff continue to await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm no leaks are present in the area. The leak test will be completed after all gas service lines are installed.

Public Works continues discussions with the low bidder regarding scheduling of the roadway and amenity construction portion of the project. Since the completion date of all utility relocations remains uncertain, subcontractors of the low bidder have not yet provided an update on cost estimates and availability for a new timeline. More information will be provided as it becomes available. 

March 8, 2024

February 9 - March 8, 2024: Install services. Status: 80% complete. Progress is slow due to subsurface frost conditions and depth of service lines (delayed by one week from original schedule).

March 11-15, 2024: Finish service installation. Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize (delayed by one week from original schedule; pending winter weather the week of March 11).

February 28-March 8, 2024: Trench and install new cables on the west and east sides of Cleave Street. Status: Complete.

March 11-22, 2024

Splice new lines and services.

March 25-April 5, 2024

Remove overhead infrastructure/clean-up/de-mobilize.

The Power & Communications Division (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project continues to be on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

The roadway and amenity construction portion of the Cleave Street Improvements project has been delayed. An updated timeline will be provided in early March. 

March 1, 2024

We greatly appreciate those who were able to attend the meeting on February 29 to share their preferences and concerns, and also those who responded to our poll from last week. The large majority of the respondents were in favor of a work stoppage beginning as early as May 24, but no later than June 30, with construction resuming on October 21. While no promises can be made at this time, Town Staff remains committed to working with the Contractor to accommodate these requests, while also addressing the impacts of the utility relocation delays. Town Staff is committed to providing and maintaining an all-weather surface on Cleave Street for the duration of the no-work period. It is expected that proper placement of the all-weather surface will take at least one week, and will occur when work on Cleave Street is paused for the summer. New schedule information will be provided in this weekly update as soon as it becomes available.

February 9 - March 8, 2024

Install services. Status: 60% complete. Progress is slow due to subsurface frost conditions and depth of service lines (delayed by one week from original schedule).

March 11-15, 2024

Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize (delayed by one week from original schedule).

February 28-March 8, 2024

Trench and install new cables on the west and east sides of Cleave Street. Status: West Cleave Street trenching is complete.

March 11-22, 2024

Change over services to new underground lines.

March 25-April 5

Remove overhead infrastructure/clean-up/de-mobilize.

February 23, 2024

This week we learned of additional utility relocation work that will prohibit the road contractor from starting work on March 4, as represented in our contract documents. We have removed the contract approval request from the February 27 Town Board meeting agenda. Our office needs to reestablish a realistic construction schedule for the road work and confirm if either of the two bidders are willing and able to meet the revised schedule. We believe the road work will require four continuous months of warm, dry weather for completion. Before we define the new roadway construction schedule, we would like to meet with the impacted parties and learn your preference from among the following options:

• Start construction immediately upon completion of the utility work, pausing for no construction July 1- October 20 and resuming construction after October 21.
• Start immediately upon completion of the utility work and continue building through the summer until the work is done.
• Postpone the start of roadway construction until after October 21.  
• Another timeline. 

We want to hold this meeting the week of February 26. Please contact publicworks@estes.org if you have a preferred day of the week or time of day for this meeting, or to reply with your preference from the four options listed above.

February 9 - March 1, 2024

Install services. Status: 30% complete. Progress is slow due to subsurface frost conditions and depth of service lines.

March 4-9, 2024

Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize

The Power & Communications Division (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project continues to be on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

The roadway and amenity construction portion of the Cleave Street Improvements project has been delayed. An updated timeline will be provided in early March. 

February 16, 2024

February 9 - March 1, 2024: Install services. Status: 10% complete. Progress is slow due to subsurface frost conditions and depth of service lines.

March 4-9, 2024: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize

Early this past week, an incident occurred in which a telecommunications and internet cable was cut by the Xcel subcontractor installing gas services. This resulted in loss of telephone and internet service for several businesses. CenturyLink was notified and able to make the necessary repairs. Contractors are required to notify 811 immediately whenever they damage a subsurface utility, which expedites notification of the affected utility provider and initiates the repair process.

This type of incident should be a rare occurrence. However, should anyone experience an outage of any type, please contact your service provider right away, and then notify Public Works so that we can gather information and attempt to expedite the repairs.

The Power & Communications Division (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project continues to be on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

The contract for the roadway and amenity construction portion of the Cleave Street Improvements project is expected to be presented to the Town Board on February 27; once signed and approved, the construction timeline can be finalized and then released to the public.

February 9, 2024

January 4 - February 8: Install gas main. Status: Completed.

February 9 - March 1: Install services. Status: On-Schedule.

March 4-9: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize

Concerns have been raised over the possibility of gas service outages as each of the individual service lines are connected to the new main, and whether customers would receive adequate notification. Town staff reached out to Project Superintendent Adam Green (NACC Construction) and received this reply:

“We do not expect any outages or disruption of service to any buildings/customers at this time. We put the building on a portable tank while we switch over the meter from the old service to the new one so service is not interrupted. We will be in contact with the individual customers while we perform this work to make sure everything is working like it should.  We will not start this process until most of the new service lines are installed and ready to switch over. Our meter techs that do the tie overs will only need a couple of days to do their work so we like to get them started when we are close to being complete with the underground work. We are planning on working the service installation from east to west.”

Town staff hope that NACC's statement alleviates any concerns, but please do not hesitate to reach out for further information. 

The Power & Communications Division (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project continues to be on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

A notice of award for the roadway and amenity construction portion of the Cleave Street Improvements project was issued on January 29. Once a contract is signed and approved by the Town Board, the construction timeline can be finalized and then released to the public. 

February 2, 2024

January 4 - February 2: Install gas main. Status: Completed.

February 5 - March 1: Install services

March 4-9: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize

The Power & Communications (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project continues to be on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

Prospective contractor bids for the roadway and amenity construction portion of the Cleave Street Improvements project were opened on January 25; a notice of award was issued on January 29. Once a contract is signed and approved by the Town Board, the construction timeline can be finalized and then released to the public. 

January 26, 2024

January 4-February 2: Install gas main. Status: 70% completed. We were delayed due to weather last week. The rock has been getting worse, so it's slow going.

February 5 - March 9: Install services

February 12-16: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize

The Power & Communications (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project continues to be on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

January 19, 2024

January 4-26: Install gas main. Status: 35% completed. Slow due to solid rock and frost. Contractor lost two days to cold weather this week.

January 29 - February 9: Install services

February 12-16: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mobilize

The Power & Communications (P & C) work to begin the undergrounding project is still on hold while staff await testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. When the P & C project starts, staff will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

January 12, 2024

January 3: Mob to jobsite. Status: Completed

January 4-26: Install gas main. Status: 20% completed. Slow due to solid rock and frost. Cold temps and snow forecasted over the weekend and next week could impact this further.

January 29 - February 9: Install services

February 12-16: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mob

Power & Communications staff expect to begin the undergrounding project either next week (January 16-19) or the following week (January 22-26), depending on the timing and results of testing by Xcel Energy to confirm that no leaks are present in the area. They will begin their work east of Big Horn Drive and proceed westward as Xcel completes the gas main relocation.

January 5, 2024

NACC Construction (Xcel Energy Contractor) began relocation of the gas main on January 4. Due to an unfortunate breakdown in communication, neither the public nor the Town was given prior notice of the work starting. The Town sincerely apologizes for the inconvenience caused by this breakdown and is taking steps to improve communication about all future project activities. As of January 12, the Town intends to provide the weekly updated construction schedules for each of the utility relocations. Meanwhile, as of today, please see the following schedule for the ongoing Xcel work:

January 3: Mob to jobsite

January 4-19: Install gas main

January 22 - February 2: Install services

February 4-9: Retire old main/clean-up/de-mob

Civil Engineer Jamin Rucker (contact details below) of the Town’s Public Works Department now serves as the project’s public communications liaison and will promptly respond to project schedule changes and the needs of the public. Direct communication with the individual utility contractors will always be most expedient; see the Project Contact Details tab below. However, Jamin is the primary point of contact when the utility contractors are unavailable or Town involvement is required. Please reach out to Jamin with project questions or if you are unsure which utility contractor is currently working in your vicinity.

Project Communications Liaison
Jamin Rucker, Civil Engineer
Town of Estes Park Public Works Department
170 MacGregor Ave
Estes Park, CO 8051
970-577-3736
jrucker@estes.org

The roadway and amenity construction portion of the Cleave Street Improvements Project was advertised for bidding as of January 4, 2024. Interested bidders can access all bid documents on BidNet or the Town of Estes Park website. Prospective contractor bids will be opened on January 25 at 2:00pm MST, at which time the Town can begin contract negotiations with the lowest responsible bidder. Once a contract is signed and approved by the Town Board, the construction timeline can be finalized and then released to the public. 

November 2023

In October 2023, the Estes Park Sanitation District completed the replacement of their Cleave Street facilities. Next, in early December, the Town of Estes Park's Power and Communications Division will begin the process of undergrounding the overhead electric lines. Timing of Xcel Energy’s significant gas main relocation is still yet to be determined, as is CenturyLink’s minor communications line work.

Due to the unforeseen delays with the utility relocations, the actual construction for the Cleave Street Improvements project is now planned to begin in the first quarter of 2024. The project is expected to be advertised for bidding in December 2023 with the intention of having a construction contractor under contract by mid- to late January 2024. The timing of the remaining utility work will dictate when roadway construction can commence. 

June 2023

All are now invited to review the 100% design plans provided in the links below. Public comment on the design may be emailed to engineering@estes.org.

Cleave Street Construction Documents - 100%

Cleave Street Concept Plan

April 2023

All are now invited to review the 90% design plans provided in the links below. 

Cleave Street Construction Documents - 90%

Cleave Street Cost Estimate - 90%

Cleave Street Concept Plan

January 2023

The Downtown Plan, input received at public meetings, and comments received through October 2022 have all been considered by the Cleave Street Improvements project team throughout the design development and revision process. All are now invited to review the 60% design plans provided in the links below.  

Cleave Street Construction Documents - 60%

Cleave Street Cost Estimate - 60%

Cleave Street - Big Horn Drive NWC Curb Extension

Cleave Street Concept Plan     

November 2022

Community members were encouraged to learn about the Cleave Street Improvements project and provide input on the preferred design concept at a public meeting held Thursday, Oct. 20, at Town Hall. The Downtown Plan, input received at the public meeting held on Aug. 25, and the results of the August public survey were all considered in the development of the preferred design concept. Public comments on this design were invited through Oct. 27 and considered by the project team during the revision process.

View the revised design concept - Oct. 27, 2022

View the preferred design concept - Sep. 21, 2022

Download the preliminary parking mitigation options

October 2022

Community members were encouraged to learn about the Cleave Street Improvements project and provide input on the preferred design concept at a public meeting held on Thursday, Oct. 20, at Town Hall. A project overview was presented by Kimley-Horn, the Town’s engineering consultant. Residents, business owners, property owners, and others interested in this project were encouraged to attend, and Public Works staff were available to discuss the project. Download the meeting flyer.

The Downtown Plan, input received at the public meeting held on August 25, and the results of the August public survey were all considered in the development of the preferred design concept that was presented at the meeting. Comments on this preferred design concept were invited through Oct. 27. 

Town staff also presented a plan to lessen the impacts of the loss of parking along the corridor; download the preliminary parking mitigation options.

August 2022

A public meeting featuring conceptual design options was held on Thursday, Aug. 25, at Town Hall. A project overview was presented by staff from Kimley-Horn, the engineering consultant. Residents, business owners, property owners, and others interested in this project were encouraged to attend.  An online survey was also made available Aug. 17-29 to gather public comments on the designs. View the survey results: 

Cleave Street Improvements - Survey Response Summary, September 2022

Cleave Street Improvements - Full Survey Responses with Design Options, September 2022 

After Aug. 19, Town Engineering Staff and the design team reviewed the survey and public meeting comments and began developing a design that best addresses the concerns raised and feedback received. This design will be brought forward for comment at a public meeting to be scheduled in mid-October.

July 2021

This project is on hold pending completion of the Town's Comprehensive Plan. This plan may revise the vision for the future of downtown Estes Park, including Cleave Street.

May 2020

This project is on hold due to budget modifications from COVID-19. The status of this project will be reevaluated as the budget year progresses.

Winter-Spring 2020

Community engagement planning.

January 2020

Consultant selected; design work begins.

December 2019

Proposals due.

November 2019

Request for Proposal released.

Adopted in 2018, the Estes Park Downtown Plan identified Cleave Street as a prime location for redevelopment. Cleave Street is located in the heart of historic downtown and parallels Elkhorn Avenue. It is a mixed-use area that includes front and back business entrances.

Cleave Street provides access to several residences including affordable housing units managed by the Estes Park Housing Authority. Fall River runs through a park adjacent to this street; and there is on- and off-street parking. Lack of continuous sidewalks makes Cleave Street unsafe for pedestrians. The narrow width of the street and its substantial slope create drainage problems and unfriendly facilities for cyclists and persons with disabilities. Utilities located in this area - power, water, and sewer - are in desperate need of upgrades and relocation.

The Cleave Street improvements are centered around realistic solutions that work for a variety of travel modes and offer an improved on-street experience. Cleave Street is utilized by a mixture of business deliveries, residents, bicyclists, and pedestrians parking and walking into downtown. Three main goals of the project are to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety and connectivity, improve intersection crossings, and upgrade ADA compliant accessibility. Improvements may include increased roadway definition, which can help reduce speed; delineation for delivery driver and loading areas; marking for residential parking; and increased signage along the street.

Storm water from Cleave Street drains into the Fall River. Another main goal of the project is to identify and enhance stormwater and drainage management and capacity in the area. The project may include green street design elements and non-traditional stormwater techniques such as bioretention, rain gardens, infiltration, grass swales or buffers, and proprietary devices to treat stormwater. The project may also include material recycling during construction.

Kimley-Horn engineering services was selected as the design team to work with the community and Town to figure out Cleave Street’s short- and long-term future. They will be conducting public outreach meetings, presenting concepts, and designing plans for construction. Interim improvements focused mostly on street and drainage, and addressed some pedestrian areas. Long-term improvements will include stormwater issues, sidewalks, and utilities.