Options offered for rebuilding Big Thompson Canyon

A debate is raging over how to go about rebuilding Big Thompson Canyon after two devastating floods ravaged the area over the past 40 years.

Construction in the canyon is expected to begin this summer with rock blasting, and it will take three years to complete the project.

Officials are offering two options for construction.

One would bar access for 11 months through the canyon on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., with local access. That option would take longer.

The Loveland Reporter-Herald reportsanother option would prevent access for five months, except for emergency access and Idylwilde residents. That option would allow construction to finish earlier.

Officials also say they are still open to suggestions.