Traffic holds on I-70 in Glenwood Canyon July 19 & 20 for rockfall mitigation

Travel Advisory

July 19, 2022 - Northwestern Colorado - Traffic holds for rock scaling will not take place Wednesday July 20 as crews were able to complete the safety-critical work on Tuesday

Statewide —The Colorado Department of Transportation and contracted partners will oversee necessary rockfall scaling operations along Interstate 70 in Glenwood Canyon on Tuesday, July 19 and Wednesday, July 20. The safety-critical operation is required to protect the traveling public on I-70 in Glenwood Canyon and is an important part of resiliency work in the canyon. Crews will remove a damaged rockfall fence and the rock debris next to I-70. The material is from summer 2021 debris flows in the canyon.

Crews will hold traffic for up to 30 minutes in both directions while rock scaling work is performed. Crews will then release the queue of motorists lined up at the closure points. Once the queue is cleared, crews will hold traffic again. Holds will take place during 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday. If absolutely necessary, crews will conduct work on Thursday. Crews will work as quickly and safely as possible to complete rockfall scaling operations and will reevaluate each day whether I-70 traffic holds can be reduced. As a safety measure, the Glenwood Canyon recreation path will also be closed.

During the project, crews will perform rock scaling operations and also repair the fencing. This project is a continuation of emergency repairs carried out through the winter and spring. Work commencing next week is contingent on the weather forecast. Traffic holds also may be necessary during the week of July 25 due to utility work.

This current phase of the emergency relief project is being undertaken to provide mitigation measures for future geohazard events. Work on the project includes: rock scaling, traffic control, debris barriers, gabion baskets, excavation, and pier protection. Work is anticipated to be complete later this fall. Midwest Rockfall, Inc. is the contractor on the rockfall mitigation. Lawrence Construction is the contractor on the continuation of repairs to I-70.

Traffic Impacts

  • Eastbound and westbound traffic will have planned traffic stops lasting 30 minutes, from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
  • Intermittent single lane closures throughout the canyon will take place Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. throughout the lifespan of the project.

Project Information

For additional information about this project:

Know Before You Go

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

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

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