On June 19th 1917, a contract was let to the Elliott Contracting Co. of
Portland, Oregon, for the construction of 3.5 miles of grade between the
foot of Cummings Hill, north of Fossil, and the Gilliam County line.
This construction was a five per cent development to eliminate the heavy
grades and narrow roadbed of the former road. Work was commenced on
July 6th, 1917, and completed on October 5th, 1917. The work of the
contracting firm was very satisfactory, and an excellent piece of
grading was secured. The Engineer in charge for the Highway Department
was Mr. B. H. McNamee.
The total cost of the work was $14,532.35, of which the State paid
$7,004.85 and Wheeler County $7,527.50. The detailed cost statement
follows: