CDOT, Contractor Begin Project to Improve US Highway 160, Del Norte to Monte Vista

July 13, 2017 - Southwestern Colorado/CDOT Region 5 - RIO GRANDE COUNTY - On Monday, July 10, the Colorado Department of Transportation and contractor United Companies began a project that will improve US Highway (US) 160 from the west side of Del Norte to the west edge of Monte Vista (mile point 201 to 215).

 Work started with the construction of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) wheelchair-accessible curb ramps in Del Norte at the intersections of US 160 and Cherry, Penasco, Hermosa and French streets; sidewalks are closed at these intersections while work is underway. This work is expected to continue through July.

From early to late August, US 160 will be chip sealed through Del Norte to the west edge of Monte Vista. A chip seal is designed to protect and preserve the life of the pavement. This project, contracted to United Companies for $1.2 million, is the second phase of a larger project to chip seal US 160 between South Fork and Monte Vista; phase I, from South Fork to Del Norte, was completed last year.

TRAVEL IMPACTS - While work on the ADA ramps is underway in July, travelers can expect some minor traffic slowing and periodic shoulder closures on the east end of Del Norte near the affected intersections. Residents and visitors are advised not to park on the side streets near the work area if at all possible. When the chip seal operation is underway in August, motorists can expect single-lane, alternating travel, Mon-Fri, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (or later), with delays of up to 15 minutes possible, depending upon traffic volumes.

During the chip seal operation, travelers are urged to drive slowly and maintain a safe following distance through the work zone:

  • 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.

  • Bicyclists and motorcyclists should use extreme caution during construction operations.

PROJECT INFORMATION - Those with questions or comments can reach the project team by calling 719-849-8592 or writing to 160delnorte2montevista@gmail.com.