CDOT Improving SH 17 on La Manga Pass

CONEJOS COUNTY – The Colorado Department of Transportation is resurfacing and making safety improvements on State Highway 17 over La Manga Pass. The work consists of highway pavement repairs, resurfacing and safety improvements from mile post 0 (at the New Mexico State line) north to MP 15. The project, which will be completed by mid-September, was contracted to APC Southern for $2.57 million

The work will greatly improve this stretch of highway that undergoes freeze/thaw conditions each winter. Prior to the asphalt overlay, crews are conducting a “mill and fill” operation to address severe pavement damage in certain areas. The mill and fill involves the removal and replacement of three inches of asphalt to remedy specific areas that have cracks, ruts or other damage. The overlay will then provide 1.5 inches of new asphalt to the entire 15-mile stretch. The project will also make safety improvements through guardrail adjustment (raising) and by placing new shoulder material. The installation of an under-highway drainage system will also help in the prevention of pavement "heaving" during cycles of freeze/thaw temperatures.

TRAVEL IMPACTS – Through the project’s completion in mid-September, motorists can expect single-lane, alternating traffic and up to 15-minute traffic holds Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Delays will vary depending upon traffic queues.

CDOT PROJECT INFORMATION - For information on this or other CDOT projects statewide, call 511 or log onto www.cotrip.org.  To receive real-time updates about road conditions in your area, visit www.coloradodot.info and click on the green cell phone icon in the upper right hand corner of the page.

TRANSPORTATION MATTERS A smoother ride will reduce wear and tear and lower vehicle maintenance costs