Crews to clean up fallen rock along Highway 3 beginning September 30

Travel Advisory

September 27, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Motorists can expect delays between Walmart and Sawmill Road through Friday

Durango — Beginning Monday, September 30, the Colorado Department of Transportation will perform week-long rock clean up operations along a short segment of Colorado Highway 3 between the US Highway 160 junction and the southern intersection of Sawmill Road. Motorists will encounter full stops, alternating traffic and up to 15 minute delays while crews remove debris from behind the concrete barriers. Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Routine maintenance is necessary to remove the excess debris and fallen rock from behind the concrete barrier.

Traffic Impacts

September 30 through October 4, daytime work hours range from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Traffic impacts include:

  • Motorists should plan for 10 to 15 minute delays and should allow for extra travel time
    Expect full stops and alternating traffic
  • Vehicles will be guided by flagging personnel and signage
  • A speed reduction of 40 mph will be enforced through the work zone
Colorado Department of Transportation Maintenance Alert Map of CO 3 rock clean up operations between Walmart and Sawmill Road. Motorists can expect 15 minute delays from September 30 to October 4 between 830 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Colorado Department of Transportation Maintenance Alert Map of CO 3 rock clean up operations between Walmart and Sawmill Road. Motorists can expect 15 minute delays from September 30 to October 4 between 830 a.m. and 5 p.m.

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!