The Catwalk Trail Reconstruction, led by the design-build team of AUI, Inc., and Bohannan Huston, Inc., reestablished a historical gem that had been decimated by fires and burn-scar flooding in 2013. BHI and its design team developed a unique approach, integrating 11 different software tools to create an accurate 3D model of the canyon walls, the creek bed, and the new Catwalk structure to provide an accurate and collision-free analysis and design. This approach, along with creative construction techniques, helped the team realize the following achievements:

• Full client/public satisfaction
• Project completion ahead of an already aggressive schedule
• On budget delivery with zero change orders

These are all exceptional accomplishments considering the remote and complex site. The innovative and collaborative team of owners, engineers, and contractors balanced all risks and successfully delivered a reborn Catwalk—along with a healthy economic boost to Glenwood, New Mexico—for the world to enjoy.

Location: Gila National Forest, near Glenwood, New Mexico
Client: Federal Highway Administration – Central Federal Lands Highway Division/US Forestry Services
Awards: 2017 ACEC New Mexico Engineering Excellence Award
Engineering News Record 2017 Best of the Best Projects Regional (Small Project)
Engineering News Record 2017 Best of the Best Projects (Small Project)
Associated General Contractors of NM: 2017 Design-Build, Federal & Heavy, Grand Prize of Show
American Society of Professional Estimators (ABQ Chapter) 2017 Most Innovative Project Award Less than $5M