Improvements to I-70 from Bethune to the Kansas state line begin March 25

Project Update

March 20, 2024 - Northeastern Colorado - Work to include resurfacing, signage and striping

Kit Carson County — The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin a highway improvement project on March 25 on Interstate 70 from Bethune, west of Burlington, to the Kansas state line.

Improvements will be made in both the eastbound and westbound lanes from Bethune to Burlington and the westbound lanes of I-70 from Burlington to the Kansas state line.

The first phase of the project will consist of constructing two detour crossings, resurfacing east and westbound lanes of I-70, some shoulder reconditioning, rehabilitation of one overpass, and upgrading emergency median crossovers, traffic signage, delineators, striping and guardrails. This work will occur in a nine-mile stretch from Mile Point 427 near Bethune to MP 436 at Burlington.

In the next phase, crews will resurface an eleven-mile portion of westbound I-70 from MP 438 near Burlington to MP 449.6, the Kansas state line. Additionally, guardrails, delineators and striping will be upgraded along this stretch of interstate. Simon Contractors, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, is the contractor for this project.

This project will improve and prolong the life of the road surface as well as providing a variety of improvements that will enhance safety. Resurfacing can greatly extend the life of the asphalt pavement. Some highways may last more than 50 years with periodic resurfacing of the top layer of asphalt and timely repairs.

Project Schedule

  • The project is scheduled to begin on March 25
  • Work is expected to be complete by late October 2025
  • This project is anticipated to shutdown for winter between November 2024 and March 2025
  • Normal working hours will be from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Travel Impacts

  • The roadway shall remain open while improvements are being made.
  • No delays are expected.
  • During paving operations in the first phase, traffic will be shifted to a head-to-head configuration on one side of I-70 with single-lane traffic in both directions.
  • The speed limit will be reduced during work hours and all other times through the work zone.

Project Contact Information

For additional information about this project, contact the project team.

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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