Bridge repair operations on US 50 the north end of Las Animas

Travel Advisory

October 17, 2024 - Southeastern Colorado - Traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction beginning October 21

Bent County - The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner Myers and Sons Construction will begin bridge repair operations on US Highway 50 just north of the city of Las Animas Monday, Oct. 21. The work will take place between Mile Point 399.85 and MP 401.69. This project will consist of bridge deck asphalt removal and bridge bearing device repair followed by bridge deck resurfacing and striping. This project will improve the structural soundness of this bridge increasing its lifespan and will update the roadway surface. Work is expected to be complete spring 2026.

For the first phase of the project, the eastbound bridge will be closed with traffic being detoured to one lane in each direction on the westbound bridge. Once the eastbound bridge work is complete, which is anticipated to take 11 months, the westbound bridge will be closed and traffic will be switched to one lane in each direction on the eastbound bridge.

Traffic Impacts

Beginning Oct. 21, Motorists and area residents can expect the following impacts during construction:

  • Daytime work hours range from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday
  • Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction over the bridge by traffic cones and signage for the duration of the project
  • Speeds will be reduced to 40 mph through the work zone
  • Width restrictions will be in place
  • Traffic fines will be doubled in the work zone
  • Motorists should slow down as they approach the work zone, drive with caution, allow extra space between vehicles and give themselves extra travel time
Map of US 50 Las Animas Bridge Repair - Project Location on US Highway 50 from Mile Point 399.85 to Mile Point 401.69 just north of the City of Las Animas
Project Map: US 50 Las Animas Bridge Repair October 2024 through March 2026. Project Location on US Highway 50 from Mile Point 399.85 to Mile Point 401.69 just north of the City of Las Animas.

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, 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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