Upcoming full closures at Eisenhower Tunnel for fire system testing

Travel Advisory

July 10, 2020 - Clear Creek County

Motorists can expect overnight single-lane closures and full bore closures in the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnel (EJMT) beginning Sunday, July 12 through Thursday, July 16 as The Colorado Department of Transportation completes testing of the fixed fire suppression system in the tunnel. This annual testing is crucial in ensuring the system is properly working in the event a fire breaks out in the tunnel.

The lane closure schedule is as follows:

  • Overnight Sunday, July 12- one lane of westbound Interstate 70 through the EJMT will be closed from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

  • Overnight Monday, July 13- full closure of the westbound EJMT bore from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Traffic will be detoured into the eastbound bore. Traffic will be alternated through the eastbound bore by following temporary traffic signals and a pilot car. Motorists can expect up to 15 minute delays. 

  • Overnight Tuesday, July 14- full closure of the eastbound EJMT bore from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Traffic will be detoured into the westbound bore. Traffic will alternate through the westbound bore by following temporary traffic signals and a pilot car. Motorists can expect up to 15 minute delays. 

  • Overnight Wednesday, July 15- one lane of eastbound I-70 through the EJMT will be closed from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. 

  • Thursday, July 16- This evening is reserved for any outstanding fixed fire suppression system testing. 

Please note, the full bore closures on July 13 and 14 allow for the testing to take place in a more efficient manner.

EJMT Fire Suppression System Testing

A photo of testing in 2019

COVID-19 

Safe transportation infrastructure is essential for emergency first responders and freight drivers as Colorado navigates the COVID-19 pandemic. With that in mind, construction continues on CDOT projects with social distancing and other health safety measures to reduce COVID-19 exposure on the worksite. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment announced guidelines for construction activities. The public is urged to join the campaign for #DoingMyPartCO and practice social distancing, wear face masks, stay at home when possible, and avoid nonessential travel. With fewer vehicles on the roads, CDOT crews will be able to work more efficiently and safely.