Crews should start replacing the concrete facing from more than a half mile of the original structure in early November.
Project engineer Kim Kock says work will only go as far as the kayak course near downtown in order to allow extra time to look for ways to improve recreational opportunities along the river.
Initial cost estimates for the next phase of the levee upgrade are around $3 million, and two more phases are anticipated.
Local artists are working with the contractor to move a portion of the levee's massive mural to the El Pueblo Museum. It's a popular panel depicting the Corn Maiden.
