US 285/US 50 Intersection and Surface Improvements

About the Project:

This project, taking place near Poncha Springs in Chaffee County, will realign and reconstruct the existing three-way intersection into a four-way signalized intersection for improved traffic movement. The project also includes overlay resurfacing of US 50 from the project intersection to six miles west at Maysville, from Mile Points 211 to 217.

Project Groundbreaking - US 285 and US 50 intersection and surface improvements project in Poncha Springs.
On April 12, CDOT, local town officials and contracting partners broke ground on the US 285 and US 50 Intersection and Surface Improvements Project in Poncha Springs.

Kimberlin Lane new intersection islands design to better support larger vehicles
Crews have rebuilt the intersection islands in compliance with the new design to better support larger vehicles. One island will be removed.

Project Benefits

  • Realign and reconstruct the existing three-way configuration in to a four-way signalized intersection
  • Create a safer intersection by correcting the sharp curve radius that currently exists
  • Align US 285 with Kimberlin Lane allowing traffic to enter US 285 from Kimberlin using the new traffic signal
  • Lengthen the right turn lane from westbound US 50 to northbound 285 allowing for better traffic flow
  • Replace existing temporary signals with permanent signals
  • Re-surface approximately 7 miles of roadway on US 50 from the US 50/285 intersection to just south of Maysville
  • Replace current signage and delineators at the US 50/285 intersection and along the 7-mile re-surfacing section

Work Schedule:

  • Weekdays, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Project start date is April 15, 2024 and will go through October 1, 2024. Crews will begin working on the intersection first and then move west on US 50 for paving.
  • Some night work is anticipated

Traffic Impacts:

Motorists can expect the following impacts during the period of construction:

  • Refer to COtrip.org for real-time travel conditions and road closures

Work this Week & Lane Closures US 285/US 50 Widening

Project Facts

  • Construction Cost: $7.4 Million
  • Contractor: United Companies
  • Timeline: April through mid-November 2024
  • Location: US 50 & 285 
    • Nearest Town/City: Poncha Springs
    • Mile Point(s): MP 2.10 to MP 2.18
    • County: Chaffee
Approximately 7 miles will be paved on US Highway 50 headed west from Poncha Springs.There will be an intersection re-alignment and widening at US 50 and US 285.
US 50/US 285 Widening Project Map