Culvert replacement projects scheduled March 16 to 20 on US 285 and CO 151

Travel Advisory

March 13, 2026 - Southwestern Colorado - Plan for brief delays and alternating traffic near La Jara and Ignacio

Conejos & La Plata Counties— The Colorado Department of Transportation will perform week-long culvert replacement operations on US Highway 285, approximately one mile north of La Jara (Mile Point 21) and on Colorado Highway 151, between Ignacio and Arboles (Mile Point 8). Beginning March 16, motorists should plan for full stops and up to 15-minute delays through Friday, March 20. CDOT urges motorists to plan ahead and allow for additional travel time.

Reduced speeds will remain in place overnight and motorists are urged to slow down and watch for workers and heavy equipment.

US 285, La Jara to Alamosa (MP 21)

  • Working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday
  • 24/7 one-way alternating traffic guided by a portable traffic signal
  • Full stops in both directions and up to 15-minute delays during daytime working hours
  • Traffic fines will be doubled in the work zone. Motorists should slow down as they approach the work zones, drive with caution, allow extra space between vehicles, and give themselves extra travel time

CO 151, Ignacio to Arboles (MP 8)

  • Working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
  • Full stops in both directions and up to 15-minute delays during daytime working hours
  • Motorists will be guided through the work zone by signage and flagging personnel
  • Temporary steel plates will be placed over the culvert work zone overnight creating an uneven surface
  • Motorists must follow 24/7 speed reductions and are urged to slowdown
Colorado Department of Transportation Map of 24/7 alternating traffic on US 285 between La Jara and Alamosa (MP 21). Culvert replacement work will take place from March 16 to 20, 2026.
Colorado Department of Transportation Map of 24/7 alternating traffic on US 285 between La Jara and Alamosa (MP 21). Culvert replacement work will take place from March 16 to 20, 2026.

Colorado Department of Transportation Map of alternating traffic on CO 151 between Ignacio and Arboles (MP 8). Culvert replacement work will take place from March 16 to 20, 2026.
Colorado Department of Transportation Map of alternating traffic on CO 151 between Ignacio and Arboles (MP 8). Culvert replacement work will take place from March 16 to 20, 2026.

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!