Construction starts soon on US 85 safety improvements at CR 14½ (14th Street) in Fort Lupton

Travel Advisory

February 2, 2023 - Northeastern Colorado - The project will realign northbound and southbound US 85 left turn lanes to improve sight distance

Fort Lupton – The Colorado Department of Transportation and Mountain Constructors will make safety improvements at the signalized intersection of U.S. Highway 85 and Weld County Road 14½ (14th Street) in Fort Lupton starting in mid-February. The project will realign northbound and southbound US 85 left turn lanes to improve sight distance.

Work involves concrete paving, traffic signal adjustment, and median cable rail installation. Northbound and southbound US 85 left turns at CR 14½ (14th Street) will be prohibited during part of the project. US 85 left turn movement restrictions will be communicated in advance on message boards approaching the work zone. Drivers wanting to turn left from US 85 onto CR 14½ (14th Street) must seek alternate routes.

US 85 drivers turning left turn at this location often must contend with a blocked view of oncoming traffic. “This project will improve safety by moving the left turn lanes into a preferred alignment with improved visibility of oncoming traffic. This relatively straight-forward solution will reduce the likelihood of serious crashes” said CDOT Region 4 Transportation Director Heather Paddock.

Drivers should expect trucks entering and exiting the work zone. At times, temporary concrete barrier wall will be used to separate the work zone from adjacent travel lanes. Drivers will be able to make all turn movements from CR 14½ (14th Street) onto and across US 85. A work zone speed limit reduction may be in place. Drivers are encouraged to use extra caution in the work zone and follow all signs and markings.

This intersection was identified as a priority project and candidate for FASTER funding. Senate Bill 09-108, also known as the Funding Advancements for Surface Transportation and Economic Recovery Act of 2009 (FASTER) allows CDOT to improve roadway safety, repair deteriorating bridges, and support and expand transit.

Mountain Constructors was awarded a $300,000 contract to construct the intersection improvements. US 85 will remain open during construction. Project completion is anticipated in spring 2023.

General work hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. with occasional extended hours and weekend work. The construction schedule is weather-dependent and subject to change. Weekly updates are available on the project web page.

Stay Informed

For additional information about this project, contact the project team.

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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