CDOT completes traffic shift, opens eastbound lanes on US 36, a day ahead of schedule; emergency work continues

WESTMINSTER—Working around the clock, CDOT and contract crews completed work early this morning to open two eastbound lanes on US 36 near Wadsworth Boulevard. Crews shifted two eastbound lanes on the westbound side with a concrete barrier separating the both directions of traffic.

This is a stable interim traffic pattern that will be sustainable until eastbound US 36 can be rebuilt following a major collapse of a section of the retaining wall and roadway due to settlement issues.

"CDOT greatly appreciates the patience of travelers during this challenge with the roadway failure," said CDOT Executive Director Shohana Lew. "US 36 is a vital corridor to the Denver Metro region and it’s critical we keep all travel lanes open. The CDOT team has worked around the clock to get eastbound travel lanes open as soon and as safely as possible to keep people and commerce moving. We are now working to get a contractor on board to rebuild the section of eastbound US 36 that collapsed, and we will continue to keep the public informed."

About a half-mile section of US 36 near Wadsworth Boulevard is now four lanes (two in each direction). The Express Lane and shoulder in this area are operating as general-purpose lanes (the Express Lane and shoulder on this small section of US 36 have been converted to two eastbound lanes. No tolls are applied to this section, but Express Lanes are operating as normal outside of the traffic configuration).

Travel is this area will be slower than usual, so motorists are advised to expect some delays and give themselves extra time when traveling the corridor during peak periods.

CDOT expects to have a construction contractor on board this week to rebuild the section of US 36 that collapsed. The roadway started to crack late last week and the cracks got significantly worse as the roadway shifted, causing the part of the road to cave in and the retaining wall to fall apart.

The westbound side and adjacent bridge in the area are safe and in good condition; the damage is isolated to a specific area of US 36. CDOT continues to monitor surrounding areas in an abundance of caution.

CDOT also had to close the bike path over the railroad bridge for safety reasons.  A detour is in place.</p