Preferred alternative selected for Mt. Garfield Culvert Study

News Release

May 20, 2021 - Northwestern Colorado - CDOT to begin design this summer

MESA COUNTY —The Colorado Department of Transportation has selected a preferred alternative for the Mt. Garfield Culvert Study, and will begin the design process this summer. The preferred alternative selected is to replace the existing box culvert, located in Mesa County where 35 8/10 Road passes under Interstate 70 near Palisade, with a new single lane box culvert.  

The study evaluated multiple alternatives to address the poor condition of the existing box culvert, while maintaining access to adjacent properties and the popular Mt. Garfield Trailhead.  The preferred alternative to replace the culvert met the purpose and need of the project, and had the most support from project stakeholders and the public. CDOT will begin designing the project to replace the existing culvert this summer with potential construction beginning in summer of 2023. Construction will be dependent on confirmation of construction funding. 

The project will address the poor condition of the box culvert, thereby improving safety and prolonging the life of I-70, as well as improving the safety for vehicles accessing the Mt. Garfield Trailhead at the culvert. During construction, temporary impacts to traffic along I-70 and 35 8/10 Road is expected and will be communicated beforehand to the traveling public.  

Stay Informed 

More information is available at: 

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts, anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include: