Project underway to replace oldest bridge on state highway system

Project Update

March 28, 2023 - Denver Metro/Central Colorado - Safety and multi-modal improvements ahead for the Alameda Avenue bridge over the South Platte River in Denver

Denver – Construction has started to replace the Alameda Avenue (Colorado Highway 26) bridge over the South Platte River, a project designed to improve safety for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Originally constructed in 1911, and widened in 1966, it is the oldest bridge on the state highway system.

In addition to replacing the bridge, the Colorado Department of Transportation project includes:

  • Building a multi-modal corridor by modifying the West Alameda Avenue intersection at South Santa Fe Drive, removing South Platte River Drive between Alameda and Cedar Street, and diverting traffic to a widened South Lipan Street, north of Alameda
  • Reconstructing the South Platte River Trail with improved sight distances, including a 12-foot concrete trail, a four-foot finely crushed stone trail, and three-foot vegetated shoulders for an overall trail width of 22 feet
  • Constructing an on-street, two-way protected bike lane on the north side of Alameda between South Lipan Street and South Kalamath Street with a connection to the South Platte River Trail
  • Installing a water quality pond
  • Improving sidewalks on the north and south side of the bridge

Schedule & Travel Impacts

  • Two lanes of the Alameda Bridge will remain open in each direction during construction, with the exception of bridge demolition work for public safety. Demolition work is anticipated to begin this spring, which would require an occasional overnight or weekend closure of the Alameda bridge.
  • Motorists should be prepared for narrowed lanes and can expect single-lane and turn-lane closures on South Platte River Drive.
  • During the initial phase of construction, Lipan Street will be built out in preparation for removing the South Platte River Drive intersection at Alameda Avenue.
  • A closure of Lipan Street already is in place.
  • The South Platte River Trail will remain open but detoured around the construction zone where it crosses under Alameda Avenue. The trail will close intermittently during bridge demolition.

Ames Construction is the prime contractor for the $22.3 million project. It is scheduled for completion by the end of 2024.

The image below is a map of the Alameda Bridge over I-25 improvements
The image below is a map of the Alameda Bridge over I-25 improvements

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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