CDOT has completed a bridge replacement and infrastructure improvement project on I-25 in Walsenburg

Travel Advisory

Jan. 21, 2025 - Southeastern Colorado - Work included rehabilitating the northbound bridge and replacing the southbound bridge structure

Huerfano County — The Colorado Department of Transportation has completed an important bridge replacement and infrastructure improvement project on Interstate 25 at Exit 50 in Walsenburg. Work included replacing one bridge and restoring the other to meet today's standards of durability and longevity, and to support increased traffic on this heavily traveled portion of the I-25 corridor that intersects Colorado Highway 160 to the west and Colorado Highway 10 to the east. Work began in early 2023 and was completed on schedule. Siete, Inc. was the prime contractor for the project.

The purpose of this project was to provide necessary improvements to these vital structures to ensure the safety and mobility of the traveling public. Work on the project included rehabilitating the northbound bridge deck and making structural improvements, building crossover detour pavement to support both directions of traffic during construction, removing and replacing the southbound bridge, widening the ramps and shoulder areas, replacing an adjacent sewer line and adding safety features along the project corridor.

Built in the 1960s, the structures cross over CO 10 (at the junction of CO 160) and the BNSF and Union Pacific railroad lines. Due to its age, heavy usage and seasonal weather, the southbound bridge was reaching the end of its lifespan and needed to be replaced while the northbound bridge structure only required deck rehabilitation. Other improvements made during the project included widening the ramps and shoulder areas, adding safety guardrail, and installing signs and delineators. An adjacent sewer line was also relocated as part of the project.

"This project is part of our commitment to bring the bridges and pavement along the southern section of I-25 up to today's standards," said CDOT Region 2 Transportation Director Shane Ferguson. "In addition to replacing the bridge, many safety features were added to increase traveler safety."

Funding for this $19.3 million infrastructure project was made possible by a combination of federal and Colorado Bridge and Tunnel Enterprise funds.

Interstate 25 and Colorado Highway 10 from west of I-25 highlighting the new bridge and pavement.
Interstate 25 and Colorado Highway 10 from west of I-25 highlighting the new bridge and pavement.
Interstate 25 just south of Colorado Highway 10 highlighting the new bridge and pavement on I-25.
Interstate 25 just south of Colorado Highway 10 highlighting the new bridge and pavement on I-25.

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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