Work began recently on a $1.5-million stimulus project in Pecos County to rebuild 8 mi. of U.S. 385 south of Fort Stockton. The project will include strengthening the underlying base structure of the section of highway with cement prior to placing a pair of surface treatments to help it stand up to the demand of the region’s heavy oilfield traffic.

The section is to be rebuilt in 2.6-mi sections beginning near the southern crest of the big hill 9 mi. south of Fort Stockton and continues for 8 mi. south.

El Paso-based C&C Road Construction, which is currently building passing lanes on U.S. 67 southwest of Fort Stockton, bid $1.5 million for the U.S. 385 rehab job - 38% under the $2.4-million estimate.