Resurfacing project to begin on US 160 from Elmore’s Corner to Durango

Project Announcement

March 17, 2026 - Southwestern Colorado - Motorists should plan for night work

Southwest Colorado — The Colorado Department of Transportation and contracting partner, Elam Construction, will begin a resurfacing project on March 23 along US Highway 160, from Elmore’s Corner to the Durango High Bridge. Much of this work will take place at night to minimize traffic impacts along this busy corridor. The project has an anticipated completion in November.

The project will improve approximately six miles of US 160 from Elmore’s Corner at the Colorado Highway 172 intersection to the Durango High Bridge just north of Walmart (Mile Points 86 to 92). Work will include resurfacing the highway, striping, new delineators, guardrail and road sign replacement. New pedestrian ramps and crosswalks, compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, will be installed on US 160 at Dominguez Drive, River Road, Three Springs Boulevard and CO 172/CR 234 (Elmore’s Corner).

“US 160 from Elmore’s Corner to High Bridge serves as a vital corridor for Durango and southwestern Colorado,” said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Julie Constan. “This highway is essential for everyday travel, tourism access and regional connectivity. The improvements will help to accommodate increases in traffic volumes and enhance roadway reliability.”

Work will begin with curb reconstruction work on the east end of the project area at Elmore’s Corner. Work activity will continue westward toward Durango, where the project will be completed with deck repairs and resurfacing of the High Bridge. Additional work will include drainage and inlet repairs at the concrete median south of Home Depot to old Farmington Hill, with settlement repairs and resurfacing on the exit ramps at Grandview Interchange.

Project Benefits

The new asphalt will add years of life to the highway, provide a smoother road surface and will add durability by increasing the resistance of ruts and road damage. The new guardrail will be 31 inches high, designed to meet new safety standard requirements. The higher railings help veering vehicles remain on the road more effectively, making the highway safer for the traveling public.

Other benefits of the project include the installation of ADA compliant curb ramps. The new ramps will be constructed in compliance with the federal guidelines and requirements, providing functional accessibility for multi-modal users.

Travel Impacts

Nighttime work hours are Sunday night through Friday morning from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Traffic impacts will include:

  • Single lane closures with lane shifts and shoulder closures
  • 15 minute delays
  • A speed reduction to 45 MPH
  • While most work will occur at night, motorists may experience daytime delays and congestion due to lane closures and traffic shifts that will remain in place 24/7
Map image of project work zone, US 160 from Durango to Elmore's Corner
Map image of project work zone, US 160 from Elmore's Corner to Durango's High Bridge

Project Contact Information

For additional information about this project, contact the project team.

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!

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