Roadway improvements to US 160 near Mancos and Bayfield starting

The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner Intermountain Slurry Seal will proceed with roadway surface improvements to U.S. 160 starting mid-June. The work includes approximately 36 miles of chip seal overlay at two separate highway segments located west and east of Durango.

On Monday, June 17, motorists can expect lane shifts and 15- to 20-minute delays on U.S. 160 near Twin Buttes, west of Durango. For several weeks, operations will continue west along the 20-mile segment (mile points 61 to 81) toward Mancos. Later this summer, work on the second 16-mile segment will take place between Bayfield and Pagosa Springs (mile points 102 to 118).

“This summer’s work is a cost effective way to extend the life of these heavily trafficked corridors and create a smoother skid-resistant surface for the cooler months to come,” said Julie Constan, Regional Transportation Director.

Chip seal applications add a restorative coat to the road surface, preventing potholes and cracks from forming. The project will also include asphalt patching, replacement of pavement markings and sign replacement. Weather permitting, construction is expected to be complete in September.

“We urge motorists to take it slow and follow the posted speeds through the work zone,” said Julie Constan. “Slower speeds not only protect vehicles from damage, but they help ensure our workers make it home safely.”

Motorists are encouraged to visit COtrip.org to view the most current project work zone locations.

Traffic impacts

Work hours will range from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Traffic impacts will include:

• Motorists can expect up to 20-minute delays.
• Vehicles will be reduced to single-lane, alternating traffic guided by pilot vehicles and flagging operations.
• Speeds will be reduced to 40 mph through the work zone.
• Traffic fines will be doubled in the work zone.
• Motorists should slow down as they approach the work zones, drive with caution, allow extra space between vehicles and give themselves extra travel time.
  

Driving through chip seal projects

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.

Remember: slow for the cone zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

• Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
• Stay alert. Expect the unexpected.
• Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
• Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
• Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
• Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
• Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
• Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
• Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
• Be patient.