Main Street Bridge endorsed for funding
A special highway committee has recommended that Mancos receive more than $1 million to help fund the replacement of the Main Street Bridge.
The proposal is subject to both federal and state transportation approval.
The $1 million in funding would offset 80 percent of the construction cost. Town officials would need to find additional outside funding to complete the project.
“At this time, staff estimates that the bridge will be a 2018 project,” said town administrator Andrea Phillips.
More than 100 years old, the vehicle and passenger bridge spanning the Mancos River was constructed in 1910.
During the latest inspection, civil engineers determined the bridge’s deck and girders were cracking, raising load capacity concerns.
“The bridge was recently rated 34.2, anything below 50 qualifies for replacement,” said Phillips.
The estimated cost of replacing the bridge is roughly $1.2 million.
Town announces $9,000 in grants for nonprofits
Last fall, town officials evaluated grant proposals from multiple nonprofit agencies that benefit Mancos area residents.
The town recently announced a total of $9,000 would be awarded this year.
Agencies selected to receive funds include Medicine Horse Center ($500), Chicken Creek Outdoor Recreation Area ($500), Mancos Senior Center ($1500), Axis Mental Health Center ($1000) and Montezuma School to Farm ($500).
While not part of the annual agency contribution process, town officials also recently voted to provide $5,000 to the Mancos Public Library.
Water rates spike
Monthly water rates in Mancos rose this month by $2.50, impacting February billings. Base gallons remain at 7,000 gallons per month, and there are no changes in water dock rates.
Sewer rates, at $36.28 per month, also remain unchanged.
In 2014, town leaders adopted a multi-year rates plan to meet future infrastructure needs. A consultant determined that without a rate increase, by 2018, expenses would outpace revenues.
Completed last year, water system improvements included $1.1 million for a 430,000-gallon storage tank, pump house upgrades and installation of a backup switch and generator and $358,000 to replace water meters.
This year, officials plan $163,500 to improve head gates, nearly $132,000 to rebuild a pressure valve and some $243,000 to replace water lines.
Phillips to lead SW Colorado Council of Governments
Mancos Town Administrator Andrea Phillips was recently tapped to chair the Southwest Colorado Council of Governments, a regional organization that addresses issues of mutual concern to 14 area governments.
SWCCOG initiatives in 2016 include maximizing investment in fiber through broadband planning, increasing opportunities for shared services, transportation planning and administering regional programs.
For more, visit www.swccog.org.
The Journal