Chip seal project complete on CO 133 between Carbondale and McClure Pass

Travel Advisory

Aug. 13, 2025 - Northwestern Colorado - Resurfacing method will extend the life of the highway

Pitkin and Gunnison Counties — The Colorado Department of Transportation, in partnership with United Companies, completed a chip seal project on Colorado Highway 133 last week. The project improved approximately 24 miles of CO 133 from Mile Point 67, Roaring Fork High School, to MP 42, McClure Pass. The two-month project began in early June and was completed about a week early on Aug. 1.

The most significant aspect of the project was the chip seal road surface treatment. Chip sealing is a cost-effective, relatively inexpensive, method of pavement maintenance and preservation of the roadway, performed in between the more costly alternatives of asphalt overlays. Chip seals apply a layer of crushed rock, providing an effective moisture barrier to the existing underlying pavement and extending the life of the highway. Other work included asphalt patching and new pavement markings.

The chip seal application will not only help protect and extend the life of the underlying pavement, it will also improve the safety of the roadway for those who travel along McClure Pass,” said Jason Smith, CDOT regional transportation director. “CO 133 is an important rural highway route that provides a connection for communities in the Roaring Fork Valley with townships in the North Fork Valley and the Western Slope.”

CO 133 with the new chip seal surface treatment
CO 133 recently received a chip seal surface treatment that will significantly extend the life of existing pavement.

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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