Highway 96 project resumes

Travel Advisory

April 21, 2023 - Southeastern Colorado - Improvements underway between Westcliffe and Wetmore

Custer County — Highway improvements are underway on Colorado Highway 96 between Westcliffe and Wetmore, including rotomilling and paving, concrete work in Silver Cliff, shoulder improvements, erosion control, seeding and striping.

The Colorado Department of Transportation is resuming the 26-mile-long project following a winter shutdown. Work initially began in May 2022. It is scheduled for completion in July 2023.

In addition to a new smoother road surface, when complete, motorists will have a safer roadway, with higher visibility markings, stabilized shoulders, and paved turnouts.

Traffic Impacts

  • Working times: daylight hours, Monday through Friday
  • Single lane and flaggers alternating traffic
  • Delays up to 15 minutes
  • Speed limit reduced to 40 mph, traffic fines doubled
  • 12-foot width restriction in place

Project Information

APC Southern Construction of Golden is the contractor for the $12,270,000 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!

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!