Chelsea Self / Post Independent
The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin improvements to Colorado Highway 82 between Glenwood Springs and Carbondale this week.
The “Whole System—Whole Safety” program will start with guardrail and utilities work. Repaving won’t begin until late summer, according to the announcement.
The five-month improvement project includes asphalt mill and overlay, guardrail replacement, utility work, ramp improvements and striping on both directions of 82 in the travel lanes.
Construction will occur between 24th Street in Glenwood Springs and mile point 12, just past the main Carbondale (Highway 133) exit.
CDOT says it has prioritized this area for construction due to the condition of the roadway, which has seen significant rutting, which often results in standing water on the highway.
“This project will provide an improved driving surface and help ensure the longevity and safety of our infrastructure,” CDOT said in a news release. “Drivers can expect lengthy work zones and are reminded to please be aware of posted speed limits through the zones to keep both fellow motorists and our crews safe on the project.”
Crews will likely begin the project in Glenwood Springs with utility work and guardrail replacement and work toward Carbondale, according to the release.
Work areas may shift to expedite construction while accommodating the lane closure restriction times, the release also states.
The project is part of a $7.3 million CDOT contract awarded to Grand River Construction based in Glenwood Springs. The contract also includes chip seal and striping work on US Highway 6 between Rifle and New Castle.
Anticipated travel impacts
Travel impacts for motorists and trail users will vary throughout the Highway 82 project. For much of the guardrail replacement and the mill and overlay work in the driving lanes of the road, motorists should anticipate stretches of lane closures, reduced speed limits and narrowed roads during daylight hours. Delays are anticipated.
In order to minimize impacts to the traveling public, CDOT will not close eastbound lanes heading up valley towards Aspen during the morning peak hours, 6 to 9 a.m.
During afternoon peak hours, between 3 and 7 p.m., down valley lanes toward Glenwood Springs will remain open.
Crews will also be constructing improved pedestrian curb ramps at several intersections along the corridor including, including 27th Street, Blake Avenue, Spring Valley Road and Highway 133 (the main Carbondale exit).
“This work will ensure that all current standards are met and maintained on ADA ramps while enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility,” according to the release.
Rio Grande Trail users should also anticipate some detours and intermittent holds. Trail users are asked to follow signage, flagger instructions and any detour routes for their own safety.