Construction Begins on Levee

Shanna Lewis / 91.5 KRCC

Demolition work has begun to remove the top 12 feet of a section of the Arkansas River Levee in Pueblo. It’s part of the first phase of a project to repair the aging structure and meet FEMA flood control guidelines. 

Heavy equipment moves dirt and concrete as the contractors build a ramp to access the top of the levee. Part of the pedestrian path near the work area has been closed for safety reasons. 

Consulting engineer Kim Kock says they expect the first critical section to be complete by mid February, despite the delay in beginning work.

"The contractor is aware that he’s working during a winter construction season," says Kock, "so he’s prepared to deal with concrete and cold weather and things like that."

When the Pueblo Conservancy District met Wednesday morning several people were on hand to question the project’s contractor selection process. The board will schedule a special meeting to address their concerns.

The board also heard an update about efforts by local groups to document the murals painted on most of the 2.8 mile long levee. Along with aerial and ground  level photographs already shot, plans are in the works for a documentary film and book about the mural.