CDOT performs two-day maintenance operations on the Animas River Bridge

Project Update

April 16, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - Plan for significant daytime delays April 23 to 24 approaching the US 550 junction (near the DoubleTree Hotel)
US 550 and US 160 Junction maintenance bridge repair map near the Doubletree Hotel in Durango April 23 and April 24
Motorists traveling through the US 550 and US 160 Junction near the Doubletree Hotel in Durango will encounter lengthy delays, lane reductions and traffic congestion while CDOT performs bridge maintenance work over the Animas River (April 23 and 24)

La Plata County — Motorists should plan for up to 20 minute delays and limited lanes next Tuesday and Wednesday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. while the Colorado Department of Transportation sets a permanent bridge joint on the US Highway 160 Animas River Bridge just south of the DoubleTree Hotel. Morning and evening commuters will not encounter significant congestion as crews will work swiftly to complete maintenance operations outside of heavy traffic times.

Last October, maintenance crews performed week-long operations to reinforce the westbound approach to the bridge and prepare it for the placement of the new expansion joint.

Traffic Impacts

Plan for lengthy daytime traffic delays April 23 and 24, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Expect limited lanes and lane shifts guided by flaggers, cones and signage
  • Motorists as well as pedestrians, are asked to seek an alternate route, if possible
  • Drivers are urged to watch for workers and their equipment, slow down and drive with extreme caution
  • Pedestrians on the Animas River Trail may be guided by flaggers during periods of heavy construction
Maintenance crews performed week-long maintenance operations to prepare the US 160 Animas River Bridge for the permanent bridge joint
Oct. 15, 2023 when maintenance crews performed week-long maintenance operations to prepare the US 160 Animas River Bridge for the permanent bridge joint that will be set in place next week.

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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