CO Highway 151 emergency culvert replacement project to begin August 30

Travel Advisory

August 30, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Daytime single-lane closures and shoulder closures are expected just south of Chimney Rock National Monument
Crew member at the CO 151 emergency culvert repair project location
On April 11, CDOT maintenance crews observed heavy Spring run-off carrying high volumes of water both around and through two 12’ in diameter culverts located under highway 151, 10 miles north of Arboles. Permanent repairs will now be performed to replace the corrugated metal culverts with two concrete box culverts.

Archuleta County — Emergency culvert replacement work will begin on Colorado Highway 151 beginning this week on August 30. Work is expected to be completed in late November. This emergency repair project will take place on a section of highway five miles south of the US 160 Junction near Chimney Rock National Monument at Mile Point 28.

Work will include the installation of two new concrete box culverts, rebuilding and resurfacing of the roadway and re-establishing proper water drainage in the area. Construction crews will utilize shoulder closures, single-lane closures and temporary signals.

Earlier this spring, CDOT was alerted of erosion issues on the shoulder of the highway caused by heavy spring run-off in Stollsteimer Creek. The repair work is critical to ensure a safe roadway and proper water drainage system to prevent future erosion.

Traffic Impacts

Beginning August 30, motorists will encounter road work south of the CO 151 and US 160 junction. Traffic impacts will include:

  • Working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday (some weekend work may occur)
  • Motorists will encounter single-lane closures and shoulder closures near MP 28
  • Motorists will be guided by temporary traffic light signals
CO 151 project location map between Arboles and Chimney Rock National Monument
Motorists should plan for delays and one-lane alternating traffic on CO 151 between Arboles and Chimney Rock National Monument, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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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