Midland Streetscape Project Update June 30, 2023

Reimagining the Past for a Vibrant Future

Phase 1

Midland Spur Update

Phase 1 of the project, which includes the intersection of Midland Spur and Two Rivers Road to the intersection of Midland Spur and Midland Avenue is progressing on time and on budget.

If you’ve walked by the area lately, you will notice that active work is now at the west end where water line installation and connections are being completed.  The construction crew is preparing for shallow utilities, pouring concrete, preparing for asphalt pavement placement, and landscaping, which will be the final steps in Phase 1 of the project.  Expect to see the paving of Midland Spur completed the last week of July, weather dependent.

Once Phase 1 is completed, Midland Spur will contain approximately 93 parking spots compared to today’s 58 and will feature improved crosswalks, inviting lighting, an additional EV charging station and conduit for additional future stations, improved ADA access and widened sidewalks, and resilient infrastructure.

Aerial photo of Phase 1 progress

Phase 2 Update

The Town recently completed a bid process for Phase 2 to ensure that Basalt was getting the most competitive team and schedule for the project. Council selected Stutsman Gerbaz, the current contractor working on Phase 1, to complete the project.  

Both Stutsman Gerbaz and the other bidder, reported that forgoing summer construction would increase the price of the project by a minimum of 50% and would lengthen the project schedule from 2 years to as many as 5 years, and would significantly increase quality control risks.

Due to the time it took to study alternatives and rebid Phase 2, a few changes that will support summer business on Midland Avenue are being put in place as far as schedule and scope of work.

• Work on Phase 2 will begin in August and run through the fall of 2023
• The installation of the watermain will consist of a single deep utility trench work during the summer months, and then transition to the service connections in the fall season
• The water line will be installed as a continuation of Phase 1 (near Alpine Bank) and run up Midland Avenue to the intersection with Homestead Drive
• Parking along the north side of Midland Avenue will be intermittently available only if the work scope allows
• One lane of controlled traffic will be accessible during the day, and two lanes of traffic will be accessible at night
• Deliveries will still be accommodated, and the center delivery lane will be maintained where work is not immediately occurring
• The work will be done in sections moving up Midland Avenue 
• Temporary asphalt will be installed in the fall until work resumes in 2024
• The construction will resume in later winter/early spring 2024 and run through  2024 

Please sign up for construction newsletter updates, which are sent weekly to keep you informed on construction impacts week by week in Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project.

Project Benefits

The Midland Streetscape project is designed to boost vitality on Midland Avenue, enhance economic development opportunities, build resiliency into aging infrastructure, and improve pedestrian access.  This project also includes improvements that address the Town’s climate goals and environmental sustainability.  In addition, it is vitally important to Basalt leadership to create contiguous ADA access along the sidewalks and entries to all Basalt businesses to create a downtown that provides equal access to all.

Some features that the project includes are below.

Maintaining the same number of vehicular parking spaces as exist today

Enhanced crosswalks that calm traffic and promote pedestrian safety while enhancing the public experience in the historic core

Multi-modal transportation infrastructure to support Basalt Climate Action Goals including improved electric capacity for expanded EV charging stations, increased WE-cycle stations, more accessible bike parking, and enhanced pedestrian access 

For community events, the streetscape will transform into a central plaza including overhead festival street lights

Additional places to linger where visitors and residents can relax, seek social opportunities, and create and build community

Wider travel lanes are designed to allow fishing boats, emergency services, and all vehicles access to and through the historic district in a safer manner.  

Enhanced stewardship of our rivers with a new underground stormwater system fed by rain gardens seeded with native plants which will provide water quality treatment of rain and snowmelt to remove pollutants before runoff moves into the river

ADA access throughout the historic district to provide equitable enjoyment of our community and businesses

Economic Development Opportunities

The Town of Basalt recognizes that during the construction period, there are opportunities to continue to draw visitors and residents into downtown Basalt to take advantage of our world class businesses, services, and restaurants.  There are significant efforts underway right now to help enhance the economy and draw people to Basalt to enjoy our gorgeous setting and vibrant small town.  

Mural Project

The Basalt Public Arts Commission (BPAC) is hosting a mural competition throughout Basalt’s downtown historic district to promote public art and participation and to contribute to the vibrancy downtown.  A series of 4’ x 6’ canvases will be placed in locations adjacent to businesses to invite people to stroll around town to view all the murals.  A special walking map will be produced for the event to help guide visitors through downtown mural by mural.

All artists will be creating visuals around their interpretation of the theme of community.  The intent is to have both general and student artists participating.  The winner of the competition will be invited to recreate their mural on a permanent location in Basalt.

Midland Money

Midland Money is a Town of Basalt sponsored voucher program to support Midland Avenue’s summer economy. Each voucher has a $20 value and can be used to purchase goods, services, and food at participating Midland Avenue businesses. Vouchers can be picked up at Town Hall and Basalt events between July and September 2023. They may be used at participating businesses between July 1 and September 20, 2023.  Learn more about the program here.

All businesses located on Midland Avenue, Two Rivers Road, or adjacent to Midland Avenue that have a current Town of Basalt business license are eligible to participate. Sign up here to participate.

Summer Concerts

Check out Basalt’s newest (well it’s not new but it is updated) and coolest destination: Basalt River Park.  The first concert will be Wednesday, July 12 with shows every Wednesday through August 30.  If you are in town, check out the progress on the stage, which also includes climbing features.

The concerts are ideal for picnic dinners. You may bring coolers and meals from home and non-alcoholic beverages. Drinks will be sold on site and proceeds will benefit a local nonprofit at each show. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages will be available as well as light snacks. We encourage you to visit our local restaurants before, during, and after the shows for drinks and dinner. 

More information on the concert series at www.basalt.net/concerts.

Stay Informed on Basalt News

Have you seen our new Tuesday ads?

Every Tuesday you can find Town of Basalt news and happenings listed in our new weekly advertisement in the Aspen Daily News on page 5.

Green Team Newsletter

Basalt Green Team advocates for a more resilient and sustainable Basalt. The Green Team sponsors projects throughout Basalt that decrease greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, promote waste reduction, and support overall sustainability. You can stay informed on the committee's news and projects by signing up for the Green Team newsletter. 

More Midland Streetscape Information

You can stay tuned to the Midland Streetscape project at letstalk.basalt.net in English and Spanish. You can contact the project team at midlandstreetscape@gmail.com.