CDOT to perform bridge maintenance at the US 160 and US 550 intersection

Travel Advisory

October 6, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Motorists will encounter lane shifts and traffic delays October 15 through 21 in Durango

La Plata County — The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin road work on Sunday, October 15, to repair the US 160 Animas River bridge just south of the DoubleTree Hotel. Motorists should allow themselves extra travel time as significant daytime delays can be expected due to slower speeds and limited lanes throughout the work zone (October 15 through 21).

Crews will completely replace the expansion joint on the westbound approach to the bridge with materials made to withstand extreme temperature changes and high volumes of traffic. Lane closures will remain in place overnight throughout the construction period. Drivers are urged to reduce their speeds while approaching the bridge.

Additional bridge work activity is planned for Wednesday, October 25. Traffic headed west to Cortez and east towards Durango on US 160 will be reduced to one lane for much of the morning.

Traffic Impacts

Plan for lengthy daytime traffic delays between 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, October 15 through Saturday, October 21.

  • Expect lane closures and lane shifts to be in place 24/7 throughout the week
  • Motorists as well as pedestrians, are asked to seek an alternate route, if possible
  • Drivers are urged to watch for workers and their equipment, slow down and drive with extreme caution
  • Pedestrians on the Animas River Trail may be guided by flaggers during periods of heavy construction
US 160 US 550 bridge maintenance map
Motorists traveling through the US 550 and US 160 Junction near the Doubletree Hotel in Durango will encounter lengthy delays, lane reductions and traffic congestion while CDOT performs bridge maintenance work over the Animas River (October 15 through 21). Additional delays may also occur the morning of October 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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