I-70 Bethune & Burlington Improvements

About the Project:

This is a roadway improvement project located on I-70 between Bethune and 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.

Project Benefits

• 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.
• A smooth highway improves safety and quality of the driving experience.
  Other safety upgrades built into this project include rehabilitation of the overpass, and improved access for emergency vehicles.
• Updated striping and guardrails reduces incidences of serious crashes.

Work Schedule:

• The project began March 27, 2024
• 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 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Traffic Impacts:

Motorists can expect the following impacts during the period of construction:

• The roadway shall remain open while improvements are being made
• There will be lane closures in both directions but 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
• Refer to COtrip.org for real-time travel conditions and road closures

Work this Week & Lane Closures I-70 Bethune to Burlington

Project Facts

• Construction Cost: $36 Million
• Contractor: Simon Contractors
• Timeline: March through October 2024 and
  2025
• Location: I-70 
  • Nearest Town/City: Bethune, Burlington
  • Mile Point(s): MP 427 to 436
  • Mile Point(s): MP 438 to 449
  • County: Kit Carson