I-70 wildlife fence project resumes in Eagle County after winter shutdown

Travel Advisory

April 28, 2023 - Northwestern Colorado - Work starts again on May 1

Eagle County — The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner CC Enterprises of Grand Junction will resume work on the wildlife fence project on May 1. The project is along the Interstate 70 corridor near Vail at two separate locations. The first location is from Mile Point 171.7, by the Minturn interchange, continuing east to MP 173.4. The second location is east of Vail, from MP 178.8 to 180.8.

Crews will add new fence, game ramps and repair the existing fence from MP 173.4 to MP 178.8 and remove fence from MP 171.7 to MP 173.4. The project is anticipated to be complete at end of August 2023.

During the past 2022 construction season, crews added new fence, game ramps and made repairs to the existing fence from MP 171.7 to MP 173.4.

Wildlife fence keeps animals off the highway and directs them to the game ramps, which provides safe passage for wildlife to exit the highway. When animals use the structure it eliminates the possibility of being hit by a vehicle reducing vehicle collisions and wildlife mortality. The new game ramps will allow animals that have managed to access the highway to safely cross back over.

Traffic Impacts

Motorists should plan for east and westbound single lane closures, shoulder closures and flagging operations on the frontage road and bike path Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Map of the I-70 wildlife fence project in Eagle County on I-70 from Mile Point 171.7 to MP 180.8 near Vail

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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