US 34 and US 36 Resurfacing

About the Project

The Colorado Department of Transportation and contractor Simon Construction have completed improvements along US 36 (Moraine Avenue) and US 34 (Big Thompson Avenue) in Estes Park.

This multi-phase project focused on improving roadway conditions, enhancing pedestrian accessibility and ensuring long-term infrastructure resilience in the area through milling, paving, roadway approach improvements and updated access points along US 36 (Moraine Avenue), from Marys Lake Road to Park River Place (Mile Point 4.9 to 6) and US 34 (Big Thompson Avenue) from US 36 (North St. Vrain Avenue) to Mall Road (MP 62 to 65).

Earlier phases of the project addressed critical infrastructure needs. A retaining wall was constructed east of River Rock Circle along US 36 (Moraine Avenue) to prevent soil erosion from damaging the roadway and nearby river. Additionally, CDOT made significant upgrades to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards by installing accessible curb ramps at several key intersections, including those at US 36 and Marys Lake Road, US 36 and US 34 (North St. Vrain Avenue and East Elkhorn Avenue). These enhancements provide safer, more inclusive access for all travelers.

CDOT greatly appreciates the time and patience of the Estes Park community throughout this project. With construction now complete, this refreshed corridor will serve both residents and visitors as the town enters its busy summer season.

Project Benefits

Benefits of constructing the retaining wall include:

• Enhanced road stability: The retaining wall will significantly reduce erosion along US 36, ensuring the roadway remains stable, maintaining structural integrity during periods of high-water flows.
• Safety improvements: By reinforcing the road, the project will create a safer travel experience for motorists by minimizing the risk of road collapse or unexpected road surface irregularities.
• Long-term cost savings: Investing in a retaining wall now will mitigate the need for frequent, costly road repairs in the future, due to ongoing erosion issues.
• Environmental protection: By reducing the impact on the surrounding land and habitat, it helps preserve the natural beauty of the Big Thompson River area.
• Resilience against extreme weather: The structure will provide added protection against erosion from the river and the effects of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall or snowmelt, ensuring the road remains passable and safe during such conditions.
• Minimized traffic disruptions: By addressing the root cause of the road damage, the retaining wall will reduce the likelihood of future road closures for repair work, leading to fewer traffic disruptions and delays.

Work Schedule

• Daytime work hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday
• Weekend work may be required to maintain the project schedule
• The work schedule is weather-dependent and subject to change

Travel Impacts

• US 34/Big Thompson Avenue between Dry Gulch Road and Mall Road - Traffic will be reduced to a single lane with alternating travel guided by flaggers
• US 34/Big Thompson Avenue between US 36/North Saint Vrain Avenue and Dry Gulch Road - One lane of traffic will remain open in each direction
• US 36/Moraine Avenue - Traffic will be reduced to a single lane with alternating travel guided by flaggers
• Safety is our top priority—for both the public and our crews. Traffic delays are expected during work hours. We’re working to keep wait times under 15 minutes. Any additional delays are unplanned and occur only to ensure everyone’s safety
• Construction vehicles will be entering and exiting the work area