The Camino Real Regional Mobility Authority told the El Paso County Commissioners Court on Nov. 3 that the Pelicano widening project has resumed construction activity after a period of litigation and contractor default.

CRRMA staff said the original awarded contractor defaulted, filed bankruptcy and asserted claims that delayed the surety’s obligation to complete the work. The county agreed to advance funds to restart construction while litigation continues; under a new takeover agreement the surety hired a replacement contractor and that contractor has mobilized to the site.

What’s underway: CRRMA said the contractor has completed cleanup, replaced traffic control devices, and begun work on a detention pond directly in front of a nearby school (safety work). The agency reported Phase 1 design is complete and that roadway construction activities for Phase 1 are planned to begin in December. The agency estimated Phase 1 will take about one year and said, if schedules hold, the segment between Loop 375 and Ercoupe should be operable by approximately September 2026.

Public notice and outreach: Commissioners requested public notices for nearby residents. CRRMA said the county provided a list of roughly 2,000 residents and businesses within about a half‑mile of the corridor and that a postcard notice would be mailed this week.

Court response: Commissioners praised the update and asked CRRMA to coordinate media access when roadway construction begins so officials can document visible progress. No formal procurement or funding vote was taken at the meeting; CRRMA described the county’s prior agreement to advance funds while legal proceedings continue.