CDOT to begin resurfacing project on US 160/491 from Towaoc to Cortez  

Speed limits to be strictly enforced 

 The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner Intermountain Slurry Seal will begin a surface treatment project on US Highway 160/491 starting on June 29. The project will take place on US 160/491 from Mile Point 29.75, two miles north of Towaoc and will continue for more than five miles to MP 34.9 near Cortez. The southern limits of the project adjoin the US 160/491 Towaoc passing lanes project that was completed earlier this year. The project is expected to be completed by the end of August. 

As part of CDOT’s Whole System – Whole Safety initiative, this project will focus on a chip seal and micro-surfacing application that will include three thin layers of resurfacing to protect and prolong the surface of the roadway by impeding crack reflection from the existing asphalt. Interfacing these three multiple layers of oil and rock create a strong and flexible mat that will preserve the asphalt beneath. Crews will also install rumble strips and new striping.  The new surface will enhance safety for motorists by providing a smoother surface for vehicles and will prolong the life of the roadway and reduce overall cracking. The new striping will offer better visibility while rumble strips will alert drivers if they are leaving the roadway or lane.      

TRAVEL IMPACTS  

Motorists can expect north and southbound one-lane alternating traffic piloted through the work zone, up to 15-minute delays, and a 40-mph speed limit.  The project will be in operation Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.    

Micro-surfacing requires about an hour to cure before traffic is allowed to drive on the fresh surface.  Businesses and residents at adjacent accesses will be notified prior to the work and travelers from these access points will not be able to access the roadway until the micro-surfacing has cured.   

PROJECT INFORMATION 

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

 Project hotline: 970-549-0322 

 Project email: resurfacingproject@gmail.com  

 Project web page: www.codot.gov/projects/us160-capeseal-towaoc-cortez  

 For information on travel conditions visit COTrip.org, sign up for GovDelivery, or call 511. Updates are also available via Twitter @coloradodot and Facebook at Facebook.com/coloradodot. 

 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. 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• Be patient! 

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