New access to public lands under construction

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – The Bureau of Land Management Grand Junction Field Office is beginning construction on a new foot and horse bridge at Bridgeport, Colorado, an area popular among local recreationists. The bridge will provide public access over the Gunnison River into Big and Little Dominguez Canyons, which are part of the Dominguez Canyon Wilderness Study Area. Presently, the only public access to the mouth of Dominguez Canyon is via the Gunnison River.

“The public should be aware that the contractor will be moving heavy equipment and materials on the Bridgeport Rd to the site during construction of the bridge,” Recreation Program Manager Britta Laub said. “The public is asked to avoid this area during heavy construction.”

The Bureau has selected JCF Bridge and Concrete from Austin, Texas to construct the 225-foot long, steel bridge, which will be limited to foot and horse traffic. Construction should be completed by December 2005. An increase in visitors to the area is anticipated because of the improved access, and BLM is seeking volunteers to monitor use and share Leave No Trace ethics with other visitors. For questions related to this project, contact Britta Laub at (970) 244-3031.

Editor’s Note: Contact BLM prior to visiting the construction site. All visitors must wear hard hats.

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