US 160 Elmore's East Project | Preliminary Design & Planning

About the Project

This project will improve safety and mobility on a critical transportation corridor between Durango and Bayfield. The project will incorporate features to improve safety and mobility while accommodating projected traffic volumes. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027 along a seven-mile section of US Highway 160 from the CO Highway 172 intersection, locally known as Elmore’s Corner (Mile Point 91.4 ) to Dry Creek near La Plata County Road 223 (MP 98). The total project cost is approximately $100 million. Current project plans include:

  • Construction of a four lane highway with additional dedicated left turn lanes
  • Improved intersection infrastructure at CR 225 and US 160 (Approximately MP 94)
  • Two wildlife underpasses, including a bridge replacement, and fencing features along both sides of the highway
  • Maximizing alternating passing lanes between CR 225 and Dry Creek (MP 94 to 98)

Schedule & Important Dates

  • Timeline: 2027 through 2030

  • Industry Outreach / Information Virtual Meeting
    Date: August 6, 2024
    Time: 10 a.m.

Map of the US 160 Elmore's East Safety & Mobility Improvements Project Work Zone
Map of the US 160 Elmore's East Safety & Mobility Improvements project work zone located between Colorado Highway 172 and County Road 223.

 Senate Bill 21-260 Checklist

This project received $16 million in funding from Senate Bill (SB) 267 and SB 21-260. In accordance with the accountability and transparency requirements SB 21-260, the status of completed requirements for US 160 Elmore's East Safety & Mobility Project will be posted below.

Download the current SB 21-260 checklist

 Procurement

Project Delivery

The project team hosted an update on the delivery approach for the US 160 Elmore’s Corner to Dry Creek Project on Aug. 6, 2024 at 10 a.m. The meeting included a presentation followed by an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback. The presentation included an overview of the project and the alternative delivery selection process and recommendation. Design-Build Delivery was chosen as the most appropriate method for the project.

Industry Outreach Meeting Presentation & Resources:

 Other Relevant Studies

All projects go through a study, environmental assessment and design phase to evaluate need and scope. If you would like to review one of the below studies please contact the Region 5/Southwest Colorado Customer Service team at 970-385-1423.

  • 2006 Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS)
  • Modified Ultimate Design Considerations Report (MUD)
  • 160/LPCR 225 Traffic Analysis Memo