Consolidation is a requirement as the NASDAQ has limitations on price:
What is the minimum share price required to be listed on NASDAQ? The NASDAQ National Market imposes minimum bid price, quantitative and other criteria in determining whether a company will be permitted to list its stock on the NASDAQ. Initial Minimum Bid Price for Stock: The stock must have a minimum initial bid price of $5.00, and must later remain at or above $1.00.
Not sure that its a good idea and so far the market is not happy about it.
Also makes me wonder aboubt the option issue. I think that was poorly managed if this was the intention. I would not have bothered participating had I know.