CDOT to Restart Intersection Improvements Project on US 85 Near Gilcrest Monday

WELD COUNTY — On Monday, April 22 (weather permitting), the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will restart an intersection safety improvements project on US 85 near Gilcrest at the intersections of Weld County Road (WCR) 31 and WCR 42. The project, which started last October, had been on hold during winter due to inclement weather.

“The project has already improved the safety of US 85, and once we finish the next and final few days of work, the roadway will be even safer,” said Project Engineer Jim Bledsoe. “All that remains is for us to install a traffic signal that will create better access for motorists to and from US 85 and finish up a few final details.”

Beginning next week, crews will be putting the finishing touches on the project, which will be the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of US 85 and WCR 42 to improve the safety of turns to and from US 85.

So far, safety improvements have been made to the driving lanes and medians at both intersections, including the lengthening of turn lanes and accommodations for easier turns for larger vehicles like commercial trucks, buses, and fire trucks. With a fire department and school nearby, these improvements are critical to improving safety in the area. Throughout the project, CDOT has coordinated with the railroad company to create improved signals, signage, and crossing arms near the tracks. The project is scheduled to be finished in early May 2013.

Work on the project will take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday each week. The speed limit will be reduced to 40 MPH through the work zone. CDOT would like to remind motorists to obey all road signs and flaggers, and to drive Slow for the Cone Zone.

The $795,000 project, contracted to Mountain Constructors, Inc. of Platteville, CO, is funded as part of the FASTER (Funding Advancement for Surface Transportation and Economic Recovery) legislation which is dedicated to improving safety and replacing poor bridges throughout the state.

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