Safety on the Project


A safety message from the Central 70 Project team.

CDOT is committed to safety. In early 2019, CDOT launched its new initiative, Whole System. Whole Safety. Bringing everyone home safely. This strategy capitalizes on current and planned safety efforts that help reduce traffic deaths.  It is CDOT’s and Central 70’s goal to improve the safety of Colorado’s transportation network by reducing the rate and severity of crashes and improving safety conditions for those traveling via all modes of transportation. The Central 70 Project will work to fulfill these goals in the following ways:


Building Safety In

  • Expand the highway width to accommodate one additional lane in each direction.
  • Widen shoulders outside and inside the travel lanes for vehicle pull-off and emergency response.
  • Improve pedestrian access by widening sidewalks on both sides of the new north/south bridges that connect local roads above the lowered highway.
  • Eliminate all loop on- and off-ramps because, over the past few decades, new interchange designs have been implemented with less-curved ramps to reduce congestion and improve safety.
  • Increase the distance between on- and off-ramps to minimize weaving and congestion.
  • Add crosswalks along the new 46th Avenue and other local streets.
  • Repair and widen bridges along the corridor.
  • Remove the aging, 57-year-old viaduct.

Slow for the Cone Zone

  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Obey posted speed limit signs of 55 mph and drive without distractions.
  • Look for signage to direct you.
  • Move over for emergency vehicles or crashes.
  • Watch for flaggers directing the flow of traffic and pedestrian crossing.
  • Watch for workers; drive with caution.
  • Don't cross solid lines when changing lanes.
  • 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.
  • Anticipate lane shifts, and merge when directed to do so.

Pedestrian Safety

  • Stay away from construction equipment, even if it is not on.
  • Do not climb or play on piles of dirt.
  • Be aware of equipment moving in and out of construction zones.
  • Watch activities from a safe distance.
  • Avoid going near holes in the ground.
  • Look both ways before crossing the street.
  • Look for signs that are obstructing a crosswalk or state that a sidewalk is closed.
  • Hold hands when walking with young children near the construction zone.