US 285 chip seal operations begin next week on Poncha Pass

Travel Advisory

July 11, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - Motorists should plan for lengthy delays and slower speeds through July 24
Colorado Department of Transportation Highway Maintenance Alert Map of chip seal operations on US 285, south of Poncha Springs
Colorado Department of Transportation Maintenance Alert Map of chip seal operations on US 285, south of Poncha Springs, July 15 to 24 from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Chaffee & Saguache Counties - Beginning Monday, July 15, the Colorado Department of Transportation will perform a two-week chip seal operation on US Highway 285 along Poncha Pass. Work will take place on an eight-mile segment between Saguache County Road 57 and Mears Junction (Mile Points 113 to 121). Motorists will encounter full stops, 20 to 30 minute delays and will be guided by a pilot car through the work zone.

CDOT reminds motorists that following the posted speed is necessary to avoid vehicle damage in the chip seal work zone. Additionally, traffic entering the highway from driveways or intersections must wait for a flagger or pilot vehicle before proceeding.

CDOT crews will work as swiftly as possible to complete the surface treatment; however operations are weather dependent.

Traffic Impacts

Daytime work hours range from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Traffic impacts will include:

  • Motorists should plan for 20 to 30 minute delays and should allow for extra travel time
  • Expect one-lane alternating traffic guided by flagging personnel and pilot cars
  • Motorists entering the highway from a driveway or intersection must wait for a pilot car
  • A speed reduction of 40 mph will be enforced through the work zone

Driving Through Chip Seal Projects
Travelers are urged to:

  • Slow down - Higher speeds can cause loose stones to scatter, and damage vehicle paint and windshields
  • Increase distance between vehicles - Space between you and other vehicles will help reduce damage caused by loose stones
  • Follow work zone signage - Use caution and consider worker safety when traveling through a work zone

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts, anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions before hitting the road. CDOT and other 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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