The Colorado Department of Transportation is asking drivers to expect heavy traffic and to give themselves ample time to reach their destination for the holidays.
Traffic on Interstate 70 heading west from Denver is expected to be heavy on Christmas Eve and the days following Christmas.
Christmas week, not including Christmas Day, is one the highest travel periods in the state, according to CDOT. Last year, from Dec. 21 to 26, I-70 counted a total of 286,049 vehicles going through the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnels.
To ease traffic delays, most CDOT construction projects will suspend lane closures. Work may continue to take place behind barriers.
Colorado may see winter weather conditions next week, particularly in high country regions. CDOT said maintenance workers will continue to work in shifts to provide round the clock service to roadways and keep them safe.
Drivers should ensure their vehicles comply with Colorado’s new traction law with the appropriate winter or all weather tires and at least a 3/16 inch tread, or carry an alternative traction device.
CDOT also urges the public to visit COtrip.org to see current road conditions and alerts before traveling.