Paving delays begin today, August 18, on the west side of US 50 Monarch Pass

Travel Advisory

Aug. 18, 2025 - Southwestern Colorado - Motorists will encounter 15-minute stops through Wednesday this week

South-Central Colorado ― Beginning today, Aug. 18, the Colorado Department of Transportation will perform an asphalt overlay surface treatment on US Highway 50 on the west side of Monarch Pass, near Sargents. The three-day paving operations will take place this week, Monday through Wednesday, between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. Motorists will encounter full stops, alternating traffic and 15-minute delays while crews pave approximately four miles of US 50 (Mile Points 191 to 195).

Traffic Impacts

On Aug. 18 through 20, daytime work hours range from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Traffic impacts include:

  • Motorists should plan for 15-minute delays and allow for extra travel time
  • Expect full stops and alternating traffic
  • Watch for flaggers and signage signaling lane shifts and lane closures
  • A speed reduction of 40 MPH will be enforced through the work zone
Map of US Highway 50 paving operations taking place August 18 to 20 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Motorists can expect up to 15-minute delays and alternating one-lane traffic.
Colorado Department of Transportation Map of US Highway 50 paving operations taking place August 18 to 20 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Motorists can expect up to 15-minute delays and alternating one-lane traffic.

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!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!