Crews are back to work on the US 160 culvert replacement project in Pagosa Springs

Project Update

March 8, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Crews have returned from winter shutdown to resume work
Aerial view of the McCabe Creek project work zone located along US 160 in Pagosa Springs (Photo courtesy Town of Pagosa Springs)
Aerial view of the McCabe Creek project work zone located along US 160 in Pagosa Springs (Photo courtesy Town of Pagosa Springs)

Archuleta County— Construction crews have returned from winter shutdown to resume work for the McCabe Creek culvert project on US Highway 160 in the town of Pagosa Springs. The work zone is located on San Juan/Main Street and S. 6th Street. Weather permitting, crews are planning for the project to be completed June of 2023.

When work resumes, construction crews will begin work on the north side of US 160 to enhance drainage and place stone riprap to protect the creek banks and new culvert structures. On the south side, work includes pipe removal, construction of three retaining walls, completing drainage features, final revegetation, and repaving US 160 in the project area.

During the 2022 construction season, work progressed at a slower than expected rate due to excessive amounts of rainfall in the 20-square-mile drainage basin located in the mountains north of Pagosa Springs. This rainfall flooded the surrounding project area leaving crews unable to remove the existing 84” culverts and retaining wall that originally supported the old shopping center, previously at this location.

Traffic Impacts

  • Concrete barriers will be placed in the outside travel lanes to move traffic into the middle of US 160 for one-way traffic each way
  • Daytime work hours from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. from Monday through Friday
  • 6th Street will remain closed for one block from US 160 to S. 5th Street for the duration of the project
Region 5 US 160 Pagosa Springs Culvert Replacement project map
Region 5 US 160 Pagosa Springs Culvert Replacement project map

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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