Expect flaggers and traffic delays next Wednesday at US 160 Elmore’s Corner intersection

Travel Advisory

May 26, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Traffic signal will not be operational to allow for fiber optic cable work on the highway

Update – 9:30 a.m. (5/31) - Project Rescheduled - Motorists can expect normal traffic flows at Elmore’s Corner today as the intersection fiber work has been delayed. CDOT will alert motorists of upcoming travel impacts through the US 160 and CO 172 intersection.

La Plata County — Motorists should be prepared for delayed travel through the US 160 and CO 172 Elmore’s Corner intersection on Wednesday, May 31 beginning at 10:00 a.m. The traffic signal will not be operational and traffic will be guided by flagging personnel to allow for fiber optic cable work on the highway.

The Colorado Department of Transportation will temporarily turn-off power to the Elmore’s Corner traffic signal while the Southern Ute Tribal Broadband Modernization Project performs work at the intersection.
To learn more about this fiber optic project visit the website at: www.southernute-nsn.gov/broadband-modernization-project

Traffic Impacts

Motorists should be prepared for delayed travel between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

  • The intersection will be controlled by flaggers as the traffic signal will not be operational
  • Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction
  • Speeds will be reduced to 40 mph
US 160 and CO 172 fiber optic installation Map
Motorists on US 160 and CO 172 should allow themselves extra travel time between Durango, Ignacio and Bayfield Wednesday, May 31 between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

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!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!