Intersection improvement project to begin at US 85 and Carson Boulevard on August 12

Travel Advisory

August 2, 2024 - Southeastern Colorado - Shoulder closures and traffic reconfigurations expected throughout construction

Fountain — The Colorado Department of Transportation with prime contractor SEMA construction, will begin an intersection improvement project on August 12 at the US Highway 85 and Carson Boulevard junction. The project work zone will extend between Fontaine Boulevard and Alegre Street (Mile Marker 132 to MM 133). Construction is anticipated to be completed by January 2025.

The scope of work will include roadway widening and pavement overlay for northbound lanes, adding raised medians to provide protected turn-lanes, installing new traffic signals, and performing final striping on the roadway. Crews will begin widening the intersection to implement protected turn lanes first, followed by electrical operations for the new traffic signal installation. The project team will then shift to concrete work for median and curb and gutter infrastructure, finishing with a mill and overlay and final striping within the project zone.

The project is expected to enhance the flow of traffic at the intersection and will provide safer turn-lanes for drivers entering and exiting the highway. Additionally, the final mill and overlay will provide a smoother roadway for motorists to enjoy.

Traffic Impacts

Motorists and area residents can expect the following impacts during construction:

  • Daytime work hours from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additional nighttime operations may take place as needed from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
  • Some weekend work may also take place intermittently over the course of the project
  • Drivers can expect shoulder closures and lane reconfigurations within the work zone. Two lanes of traffic will remain open in both directions for the duration of construction
  • The speed limit may be reduced through the work zone
  • The project is expected to last until the end of January 2025
US 85 & Carson Boulevard Intersection Improvement Project Location Map
Map identifying the Intersection Improvement Zone on US Highway 85 at Carson Boulevard in Fountain. Map indicates project start at Fontaine Boulevard and project end just south of Alegre Street.

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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