CDOT launches emergency tree cutting project to reduce wildfire risk along state highways

Front Range - The Colorado Department of Transportation began a $4 million emergency tree cutting project targeting state highway corridors determined to be at the highest risk for wildfires this summer. Work is expected to continue through the end of June.

The project is being performed by two contractors, VM West and Asplundh, and covers five highway corridors:

• Colorado Highway 119 from Mile Point 0 to 40 (from US 6 in Clear Creek Canyon north to the Nederland area)
• CO 72 from MP 10 to 53 (from Coal Creek Canyon through Pinecliffe and Nederland to near Allenspark)
• CO 93 from MP 7 to 10 (between Golden and Boulder)
• CO 128 from MP 1 to 3 (near the junction with CO 93, west of Broomfield)
• CO 67 from MP 77 to 100 (from the Woodland Park area north toward Westcreek)

Crews will work Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., advancing approximately three miles per day.

“Reducing fuel loads along our highway corridors is a critical step in protecting both our infrastructure and the communities these roads serve,” said Jim Fox, CDOT’s deputy director of maintenance. “This emergency project allows us to address the highest-risk areas quickly and aggressively before fire season peaks.”

Motorists traveling through active work areas should expect alternating one-lane traffic controlled by flaggers. Signage is in place along affected corridors to alert drivers of upcoming tree cutting activities. Drivers are urged to slow down, follow flagger instructions and remain alert when passing through work zones.

Additional highway corridors may be added to the project scope if funding allows. Once the project funds are exhausted, work will conclude. Motorists can check current road conditions and project updates at COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner app.

About CDOT’s Division of Maintenance and Operations

The vision of the Division of Maintenance & Operations (DMO) is to create one integrated division. The division focus is on real-time maintenance and operations services, as well as near-term improvement projects. We can best support the crucial work of our five CDOT regions. Our support helps to provide the optimal service and safety for the traveling public in Colorado. CDOT’s DMO - we do more than you think.

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The 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!