Bridge maintenance set to begin along US 160 on Jan. 8

Travel Advisory

January 2, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - The project will address two structures in southwest Montezuma County

Montezuma County — The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin bridge preventative maintenance of two separate structures on Jan. 8. Work will occur along US Highway 160 in southwest Montezuma County near the Four Corners. One bridge, over the San Juan River, is located about a quarter mile from the New Mexico state line. The second bridge, over Aztec Creek, is about 3 miles from the state line.

“This bridge preventative maintenance is a proactive project,” said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Julie Constan. “The work is needed to maintain the integrity of these structures that are important road assets for the busy US 160 corridor carrying critical freight, tourist and residential traffic into southwest Colorado.”

Work & Benefits

Work will include the removal of sandy sediment that has accumulated over time around the bridges’ foundations. This unstable sandy sediment can easily be washed out, exposing the foundations of the structures. Once the sediment is removed, rocks (or rip rap) will be placed around the foundations. The more stable rockfill will help protect the foundations during high water flows.

The first phase of the project will happen at the San Juan River bridge site. Meridian Contracting is the contractor for this project.

Traffic Impacts

Beginning January 8, daytime work hours will be from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Traffic impacts include:

  • Most work will take place off the highway
  • There will be minimal highway traffic impacts with only shoulder closures and occasional lane shifts throughout the course of the project
  • The project is expected to last until the end of May
US 160 bridge maintenance project map
Colorado Department of Transportation Project Map of the bridge maintenance locations on US 160 west of Cortez.

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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