Safety Improvements Project to Begin on US 285 Near Conifer
CONIFER — On August 24, 2015, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will begin an emergency safety improvements project on US 285 at Shaffer’s Crossing, west of Conifer. Preliminary work, including surveying and collecting soil samples, will beginThursday, August 20.
To increase safety along the highway, including mitigating head-on collisions, this project will widen the median area, pushing the traveling lanes to the outside shoulders. In addition, approximately 1,000 feet of tensioned cable rail barrier will be installed in the new median.
The system of cable barriers has been shown to reduce the severity of crashes, and has been successful in preventing head-on collisions and cross-median crashes. Additionally, the cable barrier provides protection to emergency responders. A double yellow line at the median also will provide better roadway visibility for motorists.
Normal working hours will be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There will be no work on holidays or the Friday before Labor Day weekend.
The northbound climbing lane on US 285 will be closed for the duration of the project. One lane will remain open in each direction. For some work, a pilot car may be utilized to guide motorists through the construction zone.
Motorists can expect delays of up to 15 minutes. Speeds will be reduced for both the safety of the traveling public as well as construction crews working along the highway. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place.
KECI Colorado Inc. of Sedalia was awarded the $683,000 project, which is expected to conclude in October 2015.
If you have questions about the project, contact the Public Information Team at 720-770-1770 or [email protected]. You will receive a response within 24 hours.
For information regarding CDOT projects statewide, log on to www.cotrip.org, download the CDOT Mobile app or call 511 from anywhere in the state. To receive real-time updates about road conditions in your area, visit www.codot.govot.info and click on the green cell phone icon in the upper right hand corner of the page. Information about weekly lane closures will be available at www.coloradodot.info/
