Colorado Public Works Journal, Fall 2024

APWA AWARDS 2024 FEATURE: Regional Transportation Plan FEATURE: Naloxone Can Save Lives COLUMNS: Association News PS: Out & About in Colorado FALL 2024: Vol. 20, No. 5 - $4.95

2┃ Colorado Public Works Journal 1974 - 2024

J O U R N A L Jo Taylor, Managing Editor The Colorado Public Works Journal - jo@coloradopublicworksjournal.com THE EDITOR REMEMBER that Colorado Public Works Journal can now be read online, on your phone, tablet or other mobile device. Please go there, take a look and let us know what you think at coloradopublicworksjournal.com FALL 2024┃3 Who is your hero? As you will see in the article on Naloxone on pages 12-13 this all important topic CAN help save lives. I was fortunate to be asked to photograph the two people who appear in the posters; Heather Strong Gutierrez and Nick Williams, who are both special individuals in our industry and are considered heroes amongst their peers. I was thrilled to be asked to photograph them and in doing so play a small part in what will surely be an incredible campaign for safety in the workplace. Thanks to SAFEProject. Being asked to photograph Nick and Heather for this campaign was one thing, but having one of the 300 + photographs I took selected for the campaign was a good feeling. Please do share this important message about Naloxone with the safety staff in your organization. Scan the QR code on page 13 and you too can be a hero. As we are all accustomed to saying we are ‘fine’ or ‘good’ when asked how we are. I challenge you to delve deeper when asking that question and find out exactly how your friend, co-worker, family member really is. I did this recently and was surprised how open someone was with me, telling me how they truly felt and was able to off load some of their issues just by talking them through with me. As a result, they thanked me for listening and said how much better they felt being able to talk it through. You may not have all the answers to people’s problems, or indeed your own, but the opportunity to talk about them with someone in confidence can be just the tonic you or they need to air the topic and obtain someone else’s perspective. Don’t do it because it’s the right thing to do, do it because it means something to you and to the recipient, to know that they are thought of, listened to and cared for. he·ro /ˈhirō,ˈhērō/ noun 1.a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.

4┃ Colorado Public Works Journal CONTENTS Cover Image: © APWA APWA Awards: page 21 MAILING LIST MAINTENANCE - COVID UPDATE Working from home and miss seeing your copy of CPWJ? No problem, send us your address and we will have your copy of CPWJ mailed to your home address rather than to your office.You may resume delivery to your office at any time. Please take a moment to let us know of any co-workers who may have moved on and no longer need to be on our mailing list. THANK YOU for helping us. FALL 2024 : Volume 20, No.5 06 : Works News Equipment 08 : Works News Updates 11 : Works News People 13 : Mental Health Naloxone: The New Must-Have in Colorado Workplace First-Aid Kits 16 : Metro Vision Regional Transportation Plan Thinking Ahead Means Thinking of Others 21 : 2024 APWA Awards 39th Annual APWA Award Nominations 48 : Industry Insights Douglas Rex 50 : Association News APWA, ACEC, RTD, CDOT, CAPA, ACPA, CCA, CRMCA 60 : PS! (Parting Shots) Out and About at Events in Colorado 62 : Advertisers Index Our Corporate Partners FALL 2024: Vol. 20, No. 5 - $4.95 APWA AWARDS 2024 COLORADO PUBLIC WORKS JOURNAL (ISSN 1555-8258) is published bimonthly in January, March, May, July, September and November CPWJ is published by PRIME Media, LLC, coloradopublicworksjournal.com Managing Editor: Jo Taylor, (720) 360-6737 jo@coloradopublicworksjournal.com Volume 20. No.5, September 2024 Production: PRIME Media, LLC Design: Taylored Graphics Printed by: One Stop Printing Subscription, Mailing Services and Accounting info@coloradopublicworksjournal.com Subscription $30.00 per year in the USA Periodicals Postage Paid in Denver, Colorado. Postmaster: Send address changes to: PRIME Media LLC, 5 White Birch, Littleton, CO 80127. Contents copyright © 2024 by PRIME Media, LLC All rights reserved Colorado Public Works Journal is an independent publication designed to be of service and interest to those providing civil services related to infrastructure construction and maintenance and allied fields, including government officials, heavy/civil contractors, engineers and architects, distributors, dealers and manufacturers of equipment and materials, and providers of services to government agencies and the construction and development industry Colorado Public Works Journal accepts no responsibility or liability for the validity of information and articles supplied by contributors, vendors, advertisers or advertising agencies. Opinions expressed are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers of CPWJ. APWA AWARDS 2024 FEATURE: Regional Transportation Plan FEATURE: Naloxone Can Save Lives COLUMNS: Association News PS: Out & About in Colorado

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6┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Works News E Q U I P M E N T Komatsu is excited to introduce a new machine portfolio of demolition excavators to the North American market. The PC490HRD-11, PC290LC-11, PC360LC-11 and PC490LC-11 have been successfully operating in the European market for more than 20 years and are now available to the North American demolition industry, providing the opportunity for customers to increase job site efficiency. The PC490HRD-11 demolition excavator features the K100 boom change system, enabling operators to begin working within minutes of arriving at a job site, and minimizing time for boom changes as the job progresses. The machine can reach up to 104 ft. and includes a full demolition guarding package, excellent visibility from a 45-degree tilting cab, and an informative human/ machine interface panel. The PC290LC-11, PC360LC-11 and PC490LC-11 straight boom excavators boost reach, providing 22%-26% more reach than standard excavators, with easy customization that allows users to program up to 15 different tools. The machines are built to tackle tough demolition jobs with robust protection elements like heavyduty revolving frame and under guards, bucket cylinder guard, boom light protection guards and reinforced attachment linkage. Komatsu’s additional product line of Lehnhoff quick couplers and Montabert demolition attachments can be paired with these demolition excavators to further increase the versatility of these machines. “Komatsu understands that the demolition industry is a fast growing and evolving segment that demands new product innovation,” said Bruce Boebel, Director of Products and Services. “We are excited to be able to now provide this family of demolition excavator solutions in support of the industry, offering the ability to quickly customize for different working environments and provide versatility and efficiency at the job site.” Komatsu introduces demolition excavators to North America Four new excavators are designed to support work in tough demolition environments

FALL 2024┃7 For local governments, street cleaning is an essential part of infrastructure maintenance, supporting the beautification of their city while promoting cleaner air and water by removing particles and potential pollutants from community roads. It might surprise you to know that the first form of mechanical street sweeper was patented all the way back in 1843 in London, and made its way to the U.S. about a decade later. Then, in 1911, the first motorized sweeper was introduced. Today, street sweeping equipment is modern, effective, and essential to infrastructure maintenance. Municipalities even have the choice between diesel and electric sweeping machines, which this resource is about. Let’s get into the key differences and how you can make more informed decisions based on your community’s needs and sustainability goals. Works News E Q U I P M E N T Electric vs. Diesel Street Sweepers - Can Innovation Advance Sustainability? Electric Street Sweeper Benefits: • Zero fuel consumption, which can significantly impact operational costs • An eco-friendly solution that reduces carbon emissions • Impressively quieter operation, perfect for any public- facing projects Electric Street Sweeper Disadvantages: • Although there is growth in the area, power does not match that of diesel machines • Battery life can impact the range of the equipment as it relies on recharge stations Diesel Sweeper Benefits: • Power and performance, perfect for large areas or more demanding jobs • Better torque at low speeds helps with the stop-and-go nature of street-sweeping Diesel Sweeper Disadvantages: • Large fuel consumption impacts operational cost and the environment • Diesel engine contributes to the high price tag on air and noise pollution

8┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Works News U P D A T E S This year marks the 20th anniversary of DHM Design’s Durango office, a milestone that highlights two decades of impactful work connecting people to the natural landscapes of the Southwest. Founded in 2004 by Principals Ann and Walker Christensen, the Durango studio has become a cornerstone in the firm’s mission to balance human presence with nature while honoring the enduring spirit of the land. DHM Design Corporation celebrates its 50th anniversary as a corporation in 2025, with Durango as one of multiple locations. From its beginnings, the Durango office has played a pivotal role in projects that have shaped communities and preserved the natural environment. Early projects included regional educational campuses and community master plans. Within the Durango vicinity, DHM continues to work on public and private park networks, trails, ranches, and vibrant businesses, all designed to foster a meaningful connection to the surrounding landscape. They continue to serve the Durango Three Springs and Twin Buttes communities into future phases of successful growth. Over the past two decades, DHM Design’s Durango office has expanded its reach, working on projects at iconic locations such as the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Dallas TX, and Boise, ID. The studio’s portfolio includes revitalizing historic western downtowns, tribal community master planning, and brownfield rehabilitation. The Firefly community plan in Salt Lake City demonstrates the value of outdoor lifestyle and features landscape art as part of progressive community planning. DHM Durango has applied unique expertise in hot spring design to create outdoor-oriented spa resorts that provide a full range of wellness experiences. The Durango Hot Springs project DHM Design’s Durango Office Celebrates 20 Years of Community-Centered Design expanded the Historic Trimble Hot Springs Pool to include over 40 unique water features offering mineral pools, cool plunges, lap lanes, and private Japanese-inspired soaking tubs within a setting of elaborate flower gardens. DHM expands on the qualities of each hot springs location to create a distinct, rejuvenating experience. As the Durango office celebrates this significant milestone, it continues to look forward, driven by the same principles that have guided it for the past 20 years—creating spaces that reflect the unique character of the land and enhancing the communities they serve. Colorado Ready Mix Concrete Association hosts the 3rd Annual Mixer Truck Driver Championship The 3rd Annual Colorado Mixer Truck Driver Championship was held on Saturday 17th August at the Jeffco Stadium in Lakewood. This family fun day sees the drivers hone their skills at maneuvering the truck around tight corners, backing up, stopping distances and completing safety checks on vehicles. Sponsored by Brannan Companies, Bruckner’s Trucks and Equipment, CEMEX USA Colorado Barricade, Holcim and Transwest Trucks. If you or someone you know would like to test their abilities in 2025 look out for the dates in CPWJ Industry Events Schedule in the new year. The winners for 2024 were from; Holcim and BURNCO.

FALL 2024┃9 Capital Teamwork Capital has been proud to partner with Tezak Heavy Equipment Co., Wilson & Company, and the Colorado Department of Transportation in successfully completing the replacement of 17 structures across rural southeastern and south-central Colorado. This $42.5 million project aimed to enhance motorist safety by providing more stable, modernized structures designed to last a century. Works News U P D A T E S Spanning three essential corridors - Colorado Highway 9, US Highway 24, and US Highway 350, safety and efficiency were at the forefront of operations. The project was safely completed approximately five months ahead of schedule and $2 million under budget. “The success of this project could not have been accomplished without the support of our transportation partners and the communities involved. We appreciate that our first responder agencies modified operations, working with us to ensure that safety was maintained throughout the duration of the project. Finally, we would like to thank you - the traveling public, residents and commuters who were affected by the project - we know traveling through construction can be challenging and we appreciate your patience as we constructed these much-needed structure replacements,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. Capital has established a permanent presence in Colorado since the project’s inception and is looking forward to continuing to work with and serve Colorado communities! Metro Water Recovery receives national recognition for continued operational excellence Platinum Peak Performance Award is for 100% permit compliance for five consecutive years DENVER — Metro Water Recovery has received a Platinum Peak Performance Award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies for 100% permit compliance for five consecutive years at its Robert W. Hite Treatment Facility in Denver. Metro was honored on July 24 at the 2024 Utility Leadership Conference in Buffalo, New York. The award recognizes excellence in wastewater treatment as measured by compliance with our National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. As of 2023, only 173 facilities across the U.S. had achieved between five and 24 consecutive years of perfect compliance with their permits. “Receiving this award is a significant achievement, and Metro is grateful to all of our employees for continually doing the dedicated work to make it possible,” Chief Operating Officer Liam Cavanaugh said. “Metro remains committed to consistently protecting the region’s health and environment by cleaning water and recovering resources.” Metro’s Northern Treatment Plant in Brighton received the Gold Award this year. Gold Awards are presented to facilities with no permit violations for the entire calendar year. “The awards highlight Metro’s collaborative efforts to ensure nearly 140 million gallons of water discharged into the South Platte River daily are suitable for agriculture, aquatic life, recreation and water supply,” Cavanaugh said

10┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Works News U P D A T E S Pulling for a Purpose CAPA and Women of Asphalt host a Summer BBQ at FARIS Machinery. To celebrate the Women of Asphalt Colorado Branch 5 Year Anniversary a barbeque lunch was held at Faris Machinery on August 2nd. A gathering of over 80 guests enjoyed a barbeque lunch catered by Hickory House Ribs at Faris Machinery location in Commerce City to celebrate the Colorado Branch of Women of Asphalt. As the first branch to be established outside of the National Women of Asphalt. Colorado has been a shining example of the camaraderie, support and inspiration that the Women of Asphalt mission aspires to. We offer FREE membership, FREE educational classes and many FREE social events. All of which will enhance your network and your skills in the industry. Each of the founding board members spoke at the event about what it has meant to be a part of this organization. (LtoR) Nicki Upright, Jo Taylor, Tammy Buck and Abby Glaser If you, or anyone you know would like to join this organization, please go to womenofasphaltco.com We also have Committee Chair positions becoming available for 2025. On Saturday 24th August, our Jo Taylor got to take part in the 2024 Special Olympics Plane Pull presented by United Airlines at Denver International Airport. The team included members from ACL Inc, WSP, Peters and Yaffee Inc, Shrewberry, Iron Woman, Parsons Corporation, City of Lafayette and T2 Utility Engineers. Together we were able to pull a United Airlines Boeing 737 with a rope 12ft across the tarmac in just over 10 seconds (the winners did it in 6.8 seconds) but it’s all about the taking part! The Special Olympics Colorado provides year-round sports, trainings, competitions, health screenings, and leadership opportunities to more than 23,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Thanks to those who came out on a beautiful blue sky Colorado day to partake and support this incredible event that raised $363,000 which will support more than 1,345 Special Olympics Colorado Athletes. The Team ‘Runway Renegades’ Adria Lucerna President of ACL with Jo Taylor of CPWJ SAVE THE DATE Join us on Thursday 12th December at the WofA Christmas Party as we celebrate our 5 Years! See Industry Event Schedule on page 59 for details and how to RSVP

FALL 2024┃11 Works News P E O P L E New Addition to Fiore & Sons Fiore & Sons is pleased to announce Emily Haney as their new Controller. Emily joins the Fiore team from the HVAC distribution industry; with over 15 years of accounting and financial management experience. As Controller, Emily will be responsible for overseeing all activities within the accounting department. She will apply her expertise to ensure all accounting procedures are intentional and efficient. Emily’s main goal is to help Fiore & Sons achieve year over year financial growth as well as the personal growth of her teammates, embodying the ‘Build Your Future With Fiore.’ “I’m excited to be part of a company who cares about not only their employee’s professional growth, but also their personal growth.” CASI Leadership Team Liz Mance is happy to announce her new position as Logistics Operation Manager for DACS. Liz is a graduate of University of Nebraska- Lincoln and comes with over 8 years of construction experience. Bringing a wealth of knowledge she has held various roles including scheduling, project coordination and estimating. She is excited to take on this new adventure. Liz is an active member of the Women in Asphalt and has held the position of golf chair for the last 2 years. Outside of work Liz enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 kids, traveling, playing golf and camping. There are a lot of new faces at CASI and a couple old ones. Earlier this year CASI hired Drew Mohatt as their VP of Business Development, Estimating, and Sales. Drew was previously employed at CASI as the EZ Street Sales Rep. After gaining experience as Chief Estimator with another producer he has returned to help CASI grow and capture new market share. Anna Kester started in April as Chief Estimator and was a key part in helping CASI land the Denver Water Board contract. Anna has over 10 years of experience in project management and estimating with various producers in the Denver market and is a great addition to the team. Francisco Chavez has returned to CASI to manage our DWB Project. He had worked at CASI for 7 years previously before starting Statewide Milling with others. As Senior Project Manager and a key member of the leadership team at CASI Francisco brings invaluable knowledge and experience to our success. Scott Finn started in May as VP of Operations. Scott has over 20 years of construction experience ranging from subgrade, milling, paving, and concrete. He has held several positions with various companies in the Denver construction market, making him the perfect choice for this position at CASI. With his leadership we can soar to great heights. Jason Potter has been at CASI for over 7 years. He started working as a laborer for the asphalt plant. During his time here he has become an integral part of making sure CASI’s asphalt plant is in prime working condition and the crown jewel of our company. We are pleased to announce his promotion to Plant Manager a well-earned title and position. We look forward to what this new chapter at CASI brings and are excited to announce the new and improved leadership team. Liz Mance Joins DACS

12┃ Colorado Public Works Journal What is Naloxone? Why Does It Matter? Naloxone, often referred to by the brand name Narcan, is a medication designed to reverse an opioid overdose. Naloxone works by quickly binding to opioid receptors in the brain, displacing the harmful substances, and reversing their effects. Naloxone is simple to administer – with minimum training, anyone can use it effectively in an emergency. Having naloxone readily available in first-aid kits is critical because overdoses can happen anywhere, including the workplace. This is particularly true in physically demanding industries like construction and public works, which have seen higher rates of opioid use due to the potential for injury and subsequent pain management. In a state like Colorado, where outdoor work and construction projects are plentiful, the stakes are high. Colorado’s Battle Against the Opioid Crisis Colorado has not been immune to the opioid crisis sweeping the nation, and this crisis is not limited to any one demographic; it’s affecting all sectors, including our workforce. In recent years, opioid-related overdose deaths in the state have risen sharply. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported over 1,400 overdose deaths in 2022, with opioids accounting for the majority. In today’s ever-evolving work environment, the concept of safety has expanded far beyond hard hats and steel-toed boots. There’s a new tool that’s quickly becoming essential in first-aid kits across Colorado’s job sites and workplaces: naloxone. As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities nationwide, the inclusion of this life-saving medication in workplace first-aid kits is a crucial step toward protecting lives. It’s a small addition that could make the biggest difference, especially here in Colorado, where the opioid epidemic has taken a significant toll. Naloxone: The New Must-Have in Colorado Workplace First-Aid Kits

FALL 2024┃13 For industries like construction, manufacturing, and public works, the risk is particularly pronounced. Workers in these fields often face physically demanding tasks that increase the likelihood of injury and, subsequently, opioid prescriptions. The line between treatment and dependency can be thin, making the workplace a critical setting for overdose prevention. That’s where naloxone comes in—equipping first-aid kits with this medication could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. Why Naloxone is a Game-Changer in Workplace Safety 1. Quick Action Saves Lives: In the event of an opioid overdose, time is everything. Naloxone can restore normal breathing within minutes, providing a critical window for emergency responders to arrive. Having naloxone in first-aid kits ensures that workers can act quickly, potentially saving a life right there on the job site. 2. Empowering Your Team: When employees are trained to use naloxone, they’re equipped to act decisively in a crisis. This training not only saves lives but also fosters a culture of safety and responsibility in the workplace. It shows that everyone has a role to play in keeping the workplace safe. 3. Challenging Stigma: By including naloxone in your first-aid kits, you send a powerful message: your workplace is a safe space where employees’ health and well-being are prioritized. This move helps reduce the stigma around opioid use and encourages workers to seek help without fear of judgment or reprisal. 4. Staying Ahead of Regulations: As awareness of the opioid crisis grows, more states, including Colorado, are considering or enacting regulations requiring naloxone availability in certain settings. Being proactive in adding naloxone to first-aid kits not only prepares your workplace for potential regulations but also shows your commitment to employee safety. 5. Reducing Legal and Financial Risks: In the unfortunate event of an overdose at work, having naloxone on hand could significantly reduce an employer’s liability. It demonstrates that you took reasonable steps to protect your employees, which can enhance your company’s reputation as a responsible and caring employer. Spotlight on SAFE Project: Colorado’s Partner in Workplace Safety SAFE Project, a national nonprofit dedicated to ending the addiction fatality epidemic, is leading the charge in making naloxone accessible in workplaces across the country, including right here in Colorado. Through their SAFE Workplaces program, they provide businesses with the resources, training, and support needed to tackle substance use issues head-on. SAFE Project offers tailored solutions that help businesses create safer, more supportive environments for their employees. Whether it’s providing naloxone kits, offering training on how to use them, or helping companies navigate the complex landscape of substance use prevention, SAFE Project is a crucial ally. Their approach isn’t just about reacting to overdoses—it’s about creating a culture of prevention and care. By partnering with unions, trade organizations, and businesses, SAFE Project ensures that Colorado’s workplaces are better prepared to handle the challenges posed by the opioid crisis. How to Implement Naloxone in Your Workplace If you’re considering adding naloxone to your first-aid kits, the process is straightforward but essential. Here’s how to get started: 1. Assess Your Needs: Evaluate your workplace environment, considering factors such as industry and location. This will help determine how many naloxone kits you need and where to place them. 2. Train Your Team: Make sure your employees are trained to recognize the signs of an overdose and know how to administer naloxone. SAFE Project offers customizable training programs that can fit the needs of any organization. 3. Communicate Clearly: Let your employees know that naloxone is available and encourage open conversations about substance use and overdose prevention. This can help reduce stigma and ensure that everyone feels supported. 4. Maintain Your Kits: Regularly check your naloxone kits to ensure they are in good working order and have not expired. Establish a protocol for replacing used or expired kits promptly. 5. Partner with Experts: Consider working with organizations like SAFE Project to access additional resources and support. Collaboration with experts can enhance the effectiveness of your naloxone program and ensure that you’re taking all the right steps. A Safer Future for Colorado’s Workforce Adding naloxone to your workplace first-aid kits is a small step that can have a huge impact. By taking this proactive approach, you’re protecting your employees, reducing your risk, and contributing to the larger fight against the opioid epidemic. With the support of organizations like SAFE Project, Colorado’s workplaces can become safer, more supportive environments where every employee has the resources they need to stay healthy and safe. Naloxone in first-aid kits isn’t just about compliance; it’s about caring for your team and making sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.

14┃ Colorado Public Works Journal SPRING-SUMMER 2023┃43 BUILDING PROGRESS A MILE HIGH. Colorado builders aim higher. Aggregate Industries has become Holcim to help it happen. The trusted names you know are now part of Holcim, a global leader in building materials innovation and sustainability. Together, we’re working to develop new ways to build smarter, build greener and build progress for people and the planet. holcim.us Send Project ITB and RFQ’s to wcrestimating@holcim.com A LEADER IN INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE BUILDING SOLUTIONS. #FollowUsForward

FALL 2024┃15

16┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Public Improvement decades in the making, Central 70 comes to fruition for the good of all By Sean O’Keefe working together to make life better in the Denver region. A 34-year veteran of transportation planning across large urban trajectories from Denver to Scottsdale, AZ, and Gresham, OR in between, Papsdorf enjoys problemsolving local transportation issues and recognizing tangible regional outcomes. “DRCOG represents nine Colorado counties and part of a tenth. Our Metropolitan Planning Organization coordinates regional transportation planning and functionally guides investment priorities in the transportation system,” he continues. “We get a federal allocation of funds to pay for that. The 2050 Metro Vision Regional Transportation Plan expresses our collective regional transportation needs and certain agreed-upon outcomes. It is based on big themes regional leaders agreed to in defining what we want to become.” According to metro Denver’s latest boundaries, the region encompasses 5,288 square miles, a spread largely constrained to the west by mountains. Across those many miles, the three things everyone in metro Denver should be concerned about are public safety, air quality, and traffic. Though everybody who must make their way across Denver for their daily commute probably wants to start with traffic, for Papsdorf and partners in local government, public safety on local streets and roads is the top priority. Metro Vision Regional Transportation thinking ahead means thinking of others By Sean Vincent O’Keefe Denver used to be a cow town. Twenty years ago, people fondly said it was - natives and transplants alike. Though it will always be The Mile High City to anyone who lives here, and the National Western Stock Show is still a point of pride, Denver’s days of being marginalized on the national scene are over. Seemingly, everybody in America wants to move here. In 2004, the population of the Denver region was approximately 2.1 million. As 2024 draws down, an estimated 2.96 million people and counting now live in metro Denver. As home to the third busiest airport in the United States and gateway to the Rockies, many more pass through by car, bus, rail, and plane every day. Though the metro population has gotten significantly larger, the city has only gotten slightly bigger – hello, Green Valley Ranch. Most of the swell has been absorbed through densification, occurring almost everywhere (LoDo, SoBo, LoHi, Ballpark, my neighborhood) and adaptive revitalization (Central Park, Lowry, RiNo). In total, the aggregate population applying pressure to the metro region’s infrastructure is enormous. The challenge of synchronizing it all in real-time is genuine. “The Denver Regional Council of Governments, or DRCOG, is an association of local governments, charged with establishing guidelines, setting policy, and allocating funding in the areas of transportation, personal mobility, growth and development, and aging and disability resources,” begins Ron Papsdorf, Transportation and Planning and Operations Director. In total, DRCOG’s council of interests includes 58 member governments

FALL 2024┃17 “Safety on our system has been a persistent problem. We had about 300 people die last year in traffic-related incidents. That is roughly equivalent to the number of people on an airliner,” shares Papsdorf in expressing the urgency. In response, DRCOG adopted Taking Action on Vision Zero, with a commitment to eliminate trafficrelated fatalities and severe injuries on the region’s roadways by making safety a priority for all transportation system users. The Denver region’s current transportation infrastructure includes 5 interstates, 6 U.S. highways, 36 state highways, 2 toll highways, 8 light rail lines, 4 commuter rails, 4,000 signalized intersections, and 7,700 miles of sidewalk. All of it adds up to a lot of room for improvement. Denver Moves Everyone, a locally enacted policy aimed at mode shift prioritizes people walking or rolling first, followed by people biking or using micromobility, followed by freight, and finally, people driving. Fatal traffic incidents across metro Denver are down significantly in 2024, but Papsdorf reminds us that we are the ultimate arbitrators of good decisions. “The public needs to put down their phones, manage their speeds, and help reduce the opportunity for crashinduced deaths.” Like the need for safer streets, the need for cleaner air in Denver remains daunting, though Papsdorf points out we have made progress. “The Denver region has had persistently high levels of ozone pollution. While overall, our levels are going down, we continue to chase lower air-quality standards set by the federal government, which still has us higher than we’re expected to be,” he says of Colorado’s topographical conundrum. Denver’s bowl-like configuration at the base of the Rockies has a natural propensity to trap pollution. On sunny mornings during winter months, cold, polluted air near the ground is trapped beneath warmer air above preventing it from moving on. In the summer, air flowing from the downslope of the northern Front Range accumulates in Denver as the sun sets. The morning sun warms the settled air quickly and returns some of the previous day’s accumulation back upslope in a reoccurring pattern. “As we continue reducing transportation-related emissions, DRCOG

18┃ Colorado Public Works Journal realizes the need to be thoughtful and intentional about focusing future transportation investments on solutions that reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions. In 2022, we did a comprehensive review of the transportation plan and made some important adjustments. There is increasing evidence that if you only add general highway capacity to an existing system, it just exacerbates the problem.” Papsdorf shares that during the 2022 revamp of the transportation plan, a major widening of the I-25 corridor through central Denver was scratched in favor of simply trying to address the northbound bottleneck at Santa Fe and rehabilitating a series of bridges crossing the highway. Likewise, a planned widening of C-470 from Wadsworth to I-70 was shelved, in favor of prioritizing improvements to the Morrison Interchange alone. These changes allowed resources to be reallocated to expanded transit corridors, namely Bus Rapid Transit. Though widening I-25 and C-470 no longer make sense, widening I-270 might. “We see reoccurring congestion on I-270, which is an important freight corridor,” says Papsdorf. “Freight requires a lot of coordination and affects a lot of people in a lot of ways. So, we are being very strategic about how to address the issue of freight mobility without being counterproductive.” Rather than trying to max out the highway system, DRCOG intends to start working toward maxing out the region’s extensive network of existing alternative transportation. Though I-25 is already pushing to the limits of reason through much of Denver, truthfully, the metro area’s public transportation system remains significantly underwhelmed. “Our strategy to decrease air pollution and traffic congestion focuses on being intentional about land use and development and regional outcomes,” says Papsdorf. “Metro Denver has invested heavily in light rail and commuter rail. We want to leverage those investments through new efficient land use and development patterns that better support the existing transit systems. Further, we are encouraging the development of a regional Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to connect communities and the light rail system through high-quality, high-frequency transit services around the region.” BRT differs from standard bus service in several ways. Alldoor boarding requires pre-purchased tickets and greatly expedites stops. Traveling along primary arterials, BRT buses have priority at intersections and travel in dedicated bus lanes in places to increase schedule reliability and express service. A series of planned improvements to facilitate BRT are underway along key regional arterials.

FALL 2024┃19 “It’s important to recognize that DRCOG as an entity doesn’t own, build, or operate anything,” continues Papsdorf, stressing the importance of collaboration ahead of actualization. “Getting things built involves interorganizational partnerships between CDOT and the local government partners. Whereas CDOT and the City and County of Denver oversee what happens on Colfax, the City of Littleton is working on Santa Fe and Mineral. Arvada has work underway and other small transit-enabling projects are happening all over the region.” Asked what he wants the design and construction industry to know about all of this, Papsdorf stresses the sincerity of intent. “This isn’t a wish list of things we could do. We are responsible for planning in line with the resources we believe we have available to make genuine improvements. The 2050 Metro Vision Regional Transportation Plan represents approximately $10 billion in projected improvements to the transportation system locally.” In building a metropolis that serves to unite us rather than divide us, we are wise to recall Denver’s heritage as an intersection of many interests. At the end of the Great Plains, nestled beneath the majestic Rocky Mountains and still proudly a cow town – Denver, CO is the most authentically welcoming city in the United States. “We all travel for a purpose. We can’t get caught up thinking three million people will do it the same way,” finishes Papsdorf. “DRCOG tries to make decisions that reflect a variety of situations, lifestyles, and ways of getting from A to B that are safe, reliable, and beneficial to the quality of life for the entire metro region.” Bus Rapid Transit: What’s Next Colfax Avenue from Union Station to I-225 (10 miles) 2024 construction start planned. Federal Boulevard from 120th Avenue in Westminster to Dartmouth Avenue in Denver (18 miles) Environmental study and design underway. Colorado Boulevard from I-70 to I-25 (6.5 miles) Multimodal corridor study underway. CO 119/Diagonal Highway from 47th Street in Boulder to Hover Street in Longmont (11.3 miles) 2025 construction start planned. CO 7/Arapahoe Road from Boulder to Brighton (25 miles) In development. East Colfax Avenue from I-225 to I-70 (5 Miles) Extension envisioned. Link: Denver Metro Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project — Colorado Department of Transportation (codot.gov)

FALL 2024┃21 Jay Goldie, APWA CO Chapter President APWA AWARDS 2024 Presented by Colorado Public Works Journal Winners of the 39th Annual Colorado Chapter American Public Works Association Awards A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to submit nominations for the 2024 APWA Colorado Chapter Awards, all the projects and individuals nominated were remarkable! Each year our Chapter reaches out to Colorado communities to highlight projects and recognize individuals making a difference in Public Works. In review of the award nominations the selection committee was impressed at the complexity of the funding, collaboration, coordination, and stakeholder involvement that many of the projects imparted. As funding remains a challenge, it’s amazing to see public works professionals becoming more innovative and creative with the delivery of new projects. The committee also recognizes the individual awardees for their contributions and dedication to their communities and organizations. These individuals clearly went above and beyond to provide excellent service. It is great to see our member agencies continue to excel and recognize numerous outstanding projects and individuals in the Colorado public works field. I encourage you to check out the write-ups showcasing Colorado’s communities and leaders that continue to make our public works community shine. The winning submittals will be awarded at the APWA Annual Conference Awards Luncheon Tuesday, October 22, 2024 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Denver Marriott West in Golden, visit the Colorado Chapter of APWA’s website to register: https://colorado.apwa.org/event/2024-apwa-colorado-annual-awardsluncheon/ The Colorado Chapter will also present the 2024 Project of the Year and Korbitz Award as part of the luncheon. The William E. Korbitz Award is awarded annually to the individual who displays the character, integrity and leadership of Mr. Korbitz, the first President of the Colorado Chapter of APWA. The Colorado APWA Chapter has again been recognized for the National 2024 Presidential Award for Chapter Excellence (PACE). The PACE Award recognizes APWA chapters for contributions made to positively impact their membership, profession, and community. It takes many dedicated hours of work of our Chapter’s members throughout the year to receive this prestigious award. A special thank you to everyone that contributed to the application and to our Chapter Administrator Pam Weimer for organizing this effort. The award was presented to the Colorado Chapter in conjunction with the APWA Public Works Expo (PWX) in Atlanta, Georgia in September. Next year’s request for project and individual nominations will go out in May of 2025. Please mark your calendars as we’d like to recognize your projects and individuals! Additionally, the Colorado Chapter encourages all nominations, even if not selected for a Chapter award, to submit your nomination to the APWA National awards program. The deadline for submitting nominations to National is typically the first week of March each year. President Jay Goldie APWA CO Chapter President

22┃ Colorado Public Works Journal American Public Works Association is an international educational and professional association of public agencies, private sector companies and individuals dedicated to providing high quality public works goods and services. Originally chartered in 1937, APWA is the largest and oldest organization of its kind in the world, with headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, an office in Washington, D.C., and 63 chapters throughout North America. APWA provides a forum in which public works professionals can exchange ideas, improve professional competency, increase the performance of their agencies APWA AWARD WINNING PROJECTS and companies, and bring important public works-related topics to public attention in local, state and federal arenas. The association is a highly participatory organization, with hundreds of opportunities for leadership and service, and a network of several dozen national committees in every area of public works. Governed by a eightteen member board of directors elected at both the regional and national levels, APWA is an open, flexible association with a diversified membership of 30,000 and a reputation for quality services and products. ADMINISTRATION LARGE COMMUNITY City & County of Denver MEDIUM COMMUNITY Town of Windsor DISASTER OR EMERGENCY CONSTRUCTION, REPAIR, OR RESPONSE LARGE COMMUNITY Adams County ENVIRONMENT LARGE COMMUNITY Denver Water MEDIUM COMMUNITY City of Lafayette SMALL COMMUNITY The Nature Conservancy OPERATIONS/MAINTENANCE LARGE COMMUNITY City of Ft. Collins MEDIUM COMMUNITY City of Loveland SMALL COMMUNITY City of Louisville PARKS AND TRAILS LARGE COMMUNITY Arapahoe County SMALL COMMUNITY City of Aspen PUBLIC OUTREACH LARGE COMMUNITY Southeast Metro Stormwater Authority STRUCTURES LARGE COMMUNITY Larimer County PROJECT OF THE YEAR Connecting Auraria: Larimer Bridge Replacement and Streetscaping City & County of Denver SUSTAINABILITY LARGE COMMUNITY City & County of Denver MEDIUM COMMUNITY City of Brighton SMALL COMMUNITY City of Fruita TRANSPORTATION LARGE COMMUNITY Arapahoe County MEDIUM COMMUNITY City of Northglenn SMALL COMMUNITY City of Cañon City INDIVIDUAL AWARDS Outstanding Public Works Employee LARGE COMMUNITY Caleb Owen, City of Thornton MEDIUM COMMUNITY Joseph Huerta, City of Brighton Professional Manager of the Year Administrative Management MEDIUM COMMUNITY Joseph Leon, City of Brighton Professional Manager of the Year Drainage & Flood Control LARGE COMMUNITY Dave Bennetts, Mile High Flood District Professional Manager of the Year Engineer LARGE COMMUNITY Katie Gargaro, City & County of Denver Professional Manager of the Year Fleet Maintenance LARGE COMMUNITY Ramón Montoya, City of Lakewood

FALL 2024┃23 RETHINK YOUR ASPHALT Micro crews Minimal lane closures No mixing, no tack No stockpile leaching ENDURANCE MEETS CONVENIENCE Discover the perfect balance of endurance and convenience with EZ Street Asphalt. Our engineered asphalt is designed to provide long-lasting performance while ooering the endurance of hot mix and convenience of cold mix. No matter the application, whether it is a pothole, overlay, or utility cut, EZ Street Asphalt is the reliable choice that exceeds expectations. YOUR INSIDE CONNECTION AVAILABLE IN 50 LB BAGS AND LOOSE BULK Meet CASI Asphalt & Concrete. Their bringing EZ Street all-temperature asphalt to your community. Give CASI a call to see for yourself. We can set up a demo, or send over a sample bag CASI ASPHALT & CONCRETE PERFORMANCE-PROVEN WORKS IN WATER THERMALLY RESILIENT Ambient ASPHALT TECHNOLOGY TM 3700 E. 56th Ave Commerce City, CO 80022 Phone: (303) 292-3434 coloradoasphalt.com

24┃ Colorado Public Works Journal by Cal Beyer images @ CDOT PROJECT OF THE YEAR CITY & COUNTY OF DENVER Connecting Auraria: Larimer Bridge Replacement and Streetscaping The project was envisioned not only as a rebuild of the 60-year-old Larimer Street Bridge crossing Cherry Creek but also as a gateway linking downtown Denver to the Auraria Campus, creating opportunities for approximately 35,000 students to engage with downtown businesses. A reinvention of the car-centric streetscape, the design prioritizes multimodal travel and pedestrian experience through innovative design features such as a curbless street, stormwater planters, awnings and additional wayfinding elements. The bridge sets a benchmark for future projects by showcasing how thoughtful design can transform infrastructure into lively, accessible spaces that support equity and enrich urban life.

Program Management Standards Initiative (PgMSI) ADMINISTRATION LARGE COMMUNITY / CITY & COUNTY OF DENVER Asset Management Project MEDIUM COMMUNITY / TOWN OF WINDSOR Organizational change is difficult under most circumstances, and more so for a large multi-disciplinary government agency. DOTI employed an innovative, bottom up staff driven modality to identify needs, engage stakeholders, and implement a Program Management Standards Initiative to address a marked increase in capital expenditures in alignment with its strategic goals. The tools and methods employed are derived from industry best practices, have broad applicability for implementation by other governmental entities and are provided publicly for their use. Windsor’s investment in advanced asset management systems has positively impacted their Public Work Division’s asset management initiatives beyond operational efficiency and cost savings. By effectively managing assets, we ensure the safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of our infrastructure, contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life of our residents. Looking ahead, we remain committed to integrating asset management practices into all new divisions, managing assets responsibly, and partnering with GIS on advancement technologies to ensure the continued accuracy and relevance of our asset information. Through efficient data integration, enhanced decision-making, and prudent resource management, we have positioned ourselves as a leader in public works excellence. As the town continues to grow and evolve, our commitment to managing community assets responsibly and improving overall operational efficiency remains unwavering, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for all our residents.

26┃ Colorado Public Works Journal DISASTER OR EMERGENCY CONSTRUCTION, REPAIR, OR RESPONSE LARGE COMMUNITY / ADAMS COUNTY Adams County pursued an innovative approach to reestablish a failed section of road critical for the local rural community near Bennett, Colorado. Procuring design and construction services under their Emergency Authority and working collaboratively on an ongoing basis with the designer and contractor, the County was able to reopen a failed roadway earlier than planned and with greater resiliency to future flooding events. This approach can serve as a model to address similar situations in the future. Reestablishment of 56th Avenue over Kiowa Creek

FALL 2024┃27 The Northwater Treatment Plant, a state-of-the-art water treatment facility, clearly reflects Denver Water’s mission to be a national leader in delivering clean water, operating and maintaining a reliable and resilient system and protecting the scarce water resources of the West. Smart project management, innovation and collaboration were fundamental to the team’s ability to deliver a critical infrastructure project of this magnitude – in size, complexity and duration - on-time, under budget and without recordable safety incident. Denver Water, its partners and customers will continue to benefit from NTP lessons learned, best practices and transferrable assets for decades – if not centuries – to come. ENVIRONMENT LARGE COMMUNITY / DENVER WATER MEDIUM COMMUNITY / CITY OF LAFAYETTE City of Lafayette Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) Improvements Project Denver Water Northwater Treatment Plant In Lafayette, our WRF project quietly redefined water sustainability, seamlessly integrating advanced technologies to meet stringent regulations and future needs. Amidst unforeseen challenges and a global pandemic, the project’s completion underscored our dedication to innovative problem-solving and community collaboration. The WRF Project weaves a lasting narrative of environmental stewardship and enhanced quality of life for the residents of Lafayette. SMALL COMMUNITY / THE NATURE CONSERVANCY Maybell Diversion Restoration The Maybell Irrigation District River Restoration project succeeded through groundbreaking innovations, with the use a drone technology, to design the access roads, use tracked cement mixers and helicopter concrete delivery in steep, remote terrains, setting new standards for material transport and safety in challenging conditions. The exceptional collaboration among local stakeholders—JHL Constructors, Maybell Irrigation District, The Nature Conservancy, River Restoration, suppliers, and subconsultants—ensured the project met water flow needs, protected the environment, and addressed unexpected challenges. This cohesive effort, driven by a shared passion for the community’s success, resulted in effective infrastructure modernization and environmental benefits, while meeting client deadlines and enhancing safety standards.

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