US 285/CO 9 Intersection Improvements & Bridge Replacement

About the Project

The project consists of making intersection improvements on US Highway 285 at Colorado Highway 9 and replacing a bridge on US 285, in the town of Fairplay in Park County. Work includes roadway widening and reconstruction to accommodate additional through lanes and acceleration /deceleration lanes, installation of new traffic lights, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp work in both Fairplay and Alma. Other work includes storm sewer and drainage improvements, sidewalk and curb and gutter replacement, and repairs to an existing pedestrian bridge.

Dec. 6 Update
Starting on Friday, Dec 6, the project will begin a planned winter hiatus. Crews will return in early spring to perform finishing work. No traffic impacts will be in place during the winter shutdown.

Work accomplished to date includes replacing an aging bridge on U.S. Highway 285 over Middle Fork of the South Platte River with two new structures that meet today's standards of durability and longevity, widening and reconstructing the US 285/CO 9 intersection, adding medians and pedestrian facilities to the intersection and ADA curb ramps in Fairplay and Alma, and making other safety, accessibility and drainage improvements. The intersection now has two through lanes and a dedicated turn lane in each direction to support increased year-round traffic.

Project Benefits

• Widen the intersection to six lanes to support year-round traffic along the US 285 corridor
• Signalize the US 285/CO 9 intersection to improve traffic flow
• Replace a bridge to meet today's standards of durability and structural integrity
• Install ADA ramps in Fairplay and Alma to enhance accessibility for all pedestrians

Work Schedule

• Dec. 6 to spring 2025 - the project will be in a winter shutdown, with no work nor impacts to traffic
• The project began in May 2023 with substantial completion reached by Dec. 5, 2024

Traffic Impacts

• During the winter shutdown, US 285 and CO 9 will remain fully open and in permanent configuration
• Motorists are encouraged to drive with caution, especially during unpredictable weather and road conditions
• Finishing work on the project will resume in spring 2025
• Please refer to COtrip.org for weather and road conditions when planning your trips

Work this Week & Lane Closures
US 285/CO 9 Improvements Project

Project Facts

• Cost: $24.1 Million
• Contractor: ACC Built
• Timeline: May 2023 to spring 2025 (winter shutdown Dec. 6 to spring 2025)
• Location: Intersection of US 285 and CO 9
  • City: Fairplay
  • Mile Point(s): 182.42 to 183.47
  • County: Park