Demolition of a concrete bridge pier with cranes and rubble.
02/04/2026|Momentum Civil Consultants|

Upper Elk Falls

Project: Upper Elk Falls Ranch Dam Rehabilitation
Owner: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW)
Location: Staunton State Park (Pine, Colorado)

Delivery Method: CM/GC (Construction Manager/General Contractor)

Project Type: Low-hazard dam; high-value asset to CPW (owner priority)
Momentum Role: Sole Independent Cost Estimator (ICE) supporting Owner negotiations

Overview

CPW advanced rehabilitation of the Upper Elk Falls Ranch Dam to improve long-term performance and reliability of a low-hazard, high-value facility. The construction scope includes significant civil, earthwork, concrete, outlet works, and spillway improvements with associated temporary works and environmental controls.

Key Elements

  • Dam and foundation work: excavation, foundation preparation, embankment/select fill placement, drains, and riprap protection
  • Outlet works rehabilitation: removal of existing intake features, installation of new gate components, pipe rehabilitation/extension, and reinforced concrete structures
  • Spillway improvements: demolition and reconstruction of spillway concrete features
  • Temporary works & controls: reservoir control, dewatering, erosion/sediment controls, staging/borrow areas, and reclamation

Momentum’s Services (Independent Cost Estimator)

As CPW’s sole Independent Cost Estimator, Momentum developed and maintained an independent cost position to support CM/GC pricing, including:

  • Building and updating an independent construction cost model for Owner decision-making
  • Reviewing plans/specifications and validating assumptions, quantities, and pricing at key milestones
  • Supporting CAP (Construction Agreed Price) negotiations on behalf of CPW to reach a defensible, transparent price
  • Providing constructability- and risk-informed input consistent with CM/GC delivery (risk register alignment, scope clarity, and pricing reconciliation)

Outcome / Value Momentum provided CPW with a clear, independent benchmark for CM/GC pricing—supporting confident CAP negotiations and strengthening cost transparency for a complex dam rehabilitation scope.