Fire suppression system testing in the southern bore of the Central 70 tunnel Motorists are urged to maintain their speed

Denver — The Colorado Department of Transportation’s Central 70 Project will be conducting critical testing of its fire suppression system as soon as tomorrow, June 23, in the southern bore of its newly built tunnel on I-70 between Brighton and Colorado boulevards. As motorists drive past the southern bore, in their current configuration in the northern bore, they will likely see a curtain of water coming down in the closed off part of the tunnel. This system testing will not impact I-70 traffic and motorists need not worry about testing over the active lanes of I-70.

In addition to the fire suppression system testing, the Project will also be testing the fire alarm system. Motorists driving past may hear the alarm. There is no need to stop if motorists hear this. If there is an emergency, the black digital signs at the mouth of each side of the tunnel will show red “Xs” to alert motorists of a closure ahead. The signs will also display a message that the “Tunnel is Closed.”

Testing of these fire life safety systems are required before traffic can be shifted into its final configuration in the eastbound lanes of I-70 come July. Operations will occur a few times a week during day time hours until mid to late July. Motorists are urged to please maintain their speed and not slow or stop as testing operations occur.

Central 70 Project - Fixed Fire Suppression System testing under the cover - testing of northern bore in 2021

About the Central 70 Project

The Central 70 Project will reconstruct a 10-mile stretch of I-70, add one new Express Lane in each direction, remove the aging 57-year-old viaduct and lower the interstate between Brighton and Colorado boulevards. More information on the Project, including a list of the Project’s community commitments, are available at central70.codot.gov.

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:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

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!

Download the COtrip App!

The new FREE COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!