OTR Permitting Process

Photo: Wolfgang Volz, © Christo 2006

Over The River has already secured several required permits, but the process is not yet complete. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) spent nearly three years preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the project, which thoroughly analyzed potential impacts and benefits. This federal permitting process was completed in November 2011 when the BLM issued a Record of Decision (ROD) granting approval of the artists’ original vision to suspend 5.9 miles of fabric panels along a 42-mile stretch of the Arkansas River in southern Colorado.

Over The River successfully secured another essential permit in March 2012 when the Fremont County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a Temporary Use Permit for the project. In addition to the more than 100 mitigation measures identified in the Final EIS, the Fremont County permit includes more than 30 specific conditions to address the County’s community and environmental concerns.

Christo’s next step in the permitting process is to submit an application for a Chaffee County Special Event Permit. The Chaffee County Commissioners are expected to make a decision on the permit by summer 2012. Before installation can begin, Christo will also need to secure a Special Use Permit from the Colorado Department of Transportation. Additionally, a Colorado State Patrol Special Event Permit must be obtained and issued approximately 90-days prior to exhibition.

Assuming the remaining permits are successfully secured, Over The River installation will begin in early 2013 with exhibition planned for August 2015. Sign up for the Over The River mailing list to receive updates on the permitting process and learn about opportunities to get involved by submitting comments and attending meetings.