Roadway improvements to US 160 near Mancos and Bayfield starting June 17

Travel Advisory

June 12, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - Plan for short travel delays during the four-month chip seal operation
An orange dump truck on a gravel road next to a electonic message board that says, "Chip Sealing Ahead."
CDOT Photo: Heavily traveled segments of US 160 in La Plata and Archuleta Counties will be undergoing chip seal improvements starting next week and continuing through September 2024.

Southwest Colorado — The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner Intermountain Slurry Seal will proceed with roadway surface improvements to US Highway 160 starting mid-June. The work includes approximately 36 miles of chip seal overlay at two separate highway segments located west and east of Durango.

On Monday, June 17 motorists can expect lane shifts and 15 to 20 minute delays on US 160 near Twin Buttes, west of Durango. For several weeks, operations will continue west along the 20-mile segment (Mile Points 61 to 81) towards Mancos. Later this summer, work on the second 16-mile segment will take place between Bayfield and Pagosa Springs (MP 102 to 118).

“This summer’s work is a cost effective way to extend the life of these heavily trafficked corridors and create a smoother skid resistant surface for the cooler months to come,” said Julie Constan, Regional Transportation Director.

Chip seal applications add a restorative coat to the road surface preventing potholes and cracks from forming. The project will also include asphalt patching, replacement of pavement markings, and sign replacement. Weather permitting, construction is expected to be complete in September 2024.

“We urge motorists to take it slow and follow the posted speeds through the work zone,” said Julie Constan. “Slower speeds not only protect vehicles from damage but they help ensure our workers make it home safely.”

Motorists are encouraged to visit COtrip.org to view the most current project work zone locations.

Traffic Impacts

Work hours will range from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday and traffic impacts will include:

  • Motorists can expect up to 20 minute delays
  • Vehicles will be reduced to single-lane alternating traffic guided by pilot vehicles and flagging operations
  • Speeds will be reduced to 40 mph through the work zone
  • Traffic fines will be doubled in the work zone
  • Motorists should slow down as they approach the work zones, drive with caution, allow extra space between vehicles, and give themselves extra travel time

Project Information

For additional information about this project:

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
Colorado Department of Transportation US 160 Roadway Improvements Project Map of chip seal work between Durango and Mancos from Mile Point 81 to 61
US 160 Roadway Improvements Project Map of chip seal work between Durango and Mancos from Mile Points 81 to 61.

Colorado Department of Transportation US 160 Roadway Improvements Project Map of chip seal work between Bayfield and Yellow Jacket Creek from Mile Points 102 to 118
US 160 Roadway Improvements Project Map of chip seal work between Bayfield and Yellow Jacket Creek from Mile Points 102 to 118

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!