Advancements in Durango Area Construction Projects

Recent council meetings and announcements underscore advancements in several significant construction projects in the area. The Durango-La Plata County Airport continues its terminal expansion, with Phase 1B construction progressing on schedule for completion later this year.^[1] The airport reported record passenger traffic in 2025, surpassing half a million travelers, amid ongoing work on the final phase.^[2] On January 20, Sky Dine was selected as the new food, beverage, and retail concessionaire, committing over $1.2 million in capital for build-out as construction advances.^[3]

City Hall and Police Station Redevelopment

The joint city hall and police station project at the historic former Durango High School site received updates during a January 21 city council meeting.^[4] Funded by a $61 million voter-approved bond, the initiative involves adaptive reuse of the high school building and construction of a new police facility next door.^[5] Asbestos remediation is required prior to major work, with total project costs estimated between $60 million and $80 million.^[6] Construction is slated to commence in July 2026, targeting completion by October 2028, following initial cost estimates expected in February or March.^[7]

Three Springs Elementary School

Durango School District 9-R plans to break ground this year on a new elementary school in the Three Springs subdivision, replacing Florida Mesa Elementary.^[8] Allocated $60 million from a prior bond measure, the facility will serve approximately 500 students on over 40 acres.^[9] Doors are anticipated to open for students in 2028.

These projects, each surpassing $28 million in scope for the airport phases alone, reflect sustained investment in infrastructure. Near-term milestones include detailed cost assessments for the civic buildings and potential regulatory approvals for related utility projects, setting the stage for construction phases in the coming months.