TWIN LAKES RESERVOIR AND CANAL COMPANY –
INDEPENDENCE PASS TRANSMOUNTAIN DIVERSION PROJECT
Wheeler also provided project engineering services for construction of an emergency spillway, turnout structure, and erosion repair at the Tabor Gulch inlet of the New York Collection Canal System.
The Independence Pass Transmountain Diversion Project collects water for the Twin Lakes Reservoir and Canal Company from the headwaters of the Roaring Fork River basin and delivers the water to the Arkan-sas River through a tunnel under the Continental Divide. The system includes two major collection canal systems that divert an average of 41,000 acre-feet from tributary streams and convey the diversions to Grizzly Reservoir, the forebay for the trans-mountain tunnel under the Continental Divide. The Lincoln Gulch Connection Canal was constructed to convey water from the Roaring Fork River. The canal traverses a steep mountain hillside and historically has experienced excessive seepage and localized failures due to avalanches and snow blockage of the channel.
Wheeler provided project engineering services for major rehabilitation of the canal. The work included installation of large diameter arch pipe (83" X 128") in sections of the canal, constructing rein-forced concrete box culverts (typically 7.5 ft x 13.75 ft) through critical avalanche zones, reshaping and lining 3,600 feet of the remaining open channel sections, repair of existing erosion damage and con-struction of an emergency overflow spillway section.
As Project Engineer, Wheeler was responsible for preparation of design plans, construction specifications, detailed con-struction cost estimates and contract documents. The project is located on federal lands in an environmen-tally sensitive area. Construction of both projects began in June 1996.
A significant part of the work was obtaining necessary permits for construction and environmental protection. Required permits for construction included a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service, a NPDES permit, planning/zoning and reclamation permits from Pitkin County, and Section 404 regional and nationwide permits. Wheeler also provided consultation with the Colorado Division of Wildlife regarding stream protection and methods for habitat restoration associated with the project.