Chip seal operations on U.S. 160 between Bayfield and Pagosa Springs are anticipated to begin next week.
Work was originally anticipated to begin on the stretch on Aug. 14, but weather over the chip seal project west of Durango have delayed the work between Bayfield and Pagosa, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).
“The recent monsoon rains have put a hamper on the chip seal progress west of Durango,” Adair Christensen, Region 5 communications specialist wrote in an email to The SUN. “If the weather cooperates the section between Mancos and Durango will likely be completed by the end of this week and crews will begin chip sealing east of Bayfield early next week.”
According to CDOT, since July 29, approximately 15 miles of U.S. 160 have been resurfaced between Mancos and Durango. The chip seal surface must cure for 14 days, then the roadway will receive permanent striping.
Once the Mancos-to-Durango section is complete, crews are set to begin chip seal operations on U.S. 160 east of Bayfield near Yellow Jacket Creek at mile point 118 and move westbound in 2-mile sections a day toward Bayfield, according to the agency.
CDOT notes that there will be single-lane alternating traffic operations and a pilot car, with the speed limit reduced to 40 mph in the work zone.
A travel advisory notes motorists should plan ahead and expect up to 20-minute delays.
Construction schedules could change depending on the weather, the agency notes.
Driving through chip seal projects
According to CDOT, travelers are urged to:
• Slow down: Higher speeds can cause loose stones to scatter, and damage vehicle paint and windshields.
• Increase distance between vehicles: Space between you and other vehicles will help reduce damage caused by loose stones.
• Follow work zone signage: Use caution and consider worker safety when traveling through a work zone.
