ABOUT
El Paso County is undertaking an update of the standards that guide engineering and development across the county. The Engineering Criteria Manual (ECM) and Drainage Criteria Manual (DCM) updates are being coordinated by County staff from the Department of Public Works and Engineering Division, with guidance from an Stakeholder Group of local community agencies and development professionals, with technical expertise provided by IMEG Corp., a nationally recognized engineering and consulting firm.
Phase 1
Project Kick-Off
August 2025
Phase 2
Standards Assessment
August - October 2025
Project Timeline
Phase 3
Standards Drafting
October 2025 - August 2026
Phase 4
50% Progress Set & Stakeholder Review
September 2026
Phase 5
75% Progress Set & Stakeholder Review
February 2027
Phase 6
90% Progress Set
April 2027
Phase 7
Completion & Adoption of ECM
June 2027
The project timeline includes seven phases: Phase 1: Project Kick-Off begins in August 2025. Phase 2: Standards Assessment runs from August through October 2025, followed by Phase 3: Standards Drafting from October 2025 into August 2026. Phase 4: 50% Progress Set and Stakeholder Review occurs in September 2026, and Phase 5: 75% Progress Set and Stakeholder Review in February 2027. Phase 6: 90% Progress Set occurs in April 2027. The project concludes with Phase 7: Completion and Adoption of the ECM in June 2027.
Commonly Used Terms
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The Engineering Criteria Manual (ECM) is El Paso County’s guide for designing and building public infrastructure. It sets standards for roads, drainage, utilities, and development projects, ensuring safety, consistency, and quality while supporting the County’s goals for sustainable growth and reliable infrastructure.
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The Drainage Criteria Manual (DCM) is El Paso County’s guide for managing stormwater and drainage in development projects. It sets standards for design, construction, and maintenance of drainage systems, ensuring safety, flood prevention, and long-term water management while supporting sustainable growth