Information provided by Colorado Department of Transportation
The following work is planned for the week of April 14-19 in downtown Pagosa Springs, as part of the two-year Highway 160 reconstruction project.
Potholing (small, drilled holes through the roadway surface to identify where utilities are located) continues as the project team determines the location of utilities. The project team is working closely with the Town of Pagosa Springs to determine where utilities are located.
The WW Clyde team is working to fill potholes in the travel lanes through town.
In the next two weeks, the team will begin water utility work as the old service line needs to be retired; this is a joint effort between the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District (PAWSD).
Roadway grading will begin this week and continue as excavation to the utility lines begins.
Night work may be needed as the team plans for installation of new water service lines (scheduling this will limit daytime business disruptions).
The 2nd and 4th street intersections on the north side of U.S. 160 will remain closed until utility and drainage work is completed.
Removal of existing sidewalk, and curb and gutter on the north side. Access to local businesses will be maintained throughout this operation and businesses will be notified of work taking place around their location.
Pedestrian crosswalks will be open at 1st, 3rd and 4th streets. Mid-block crossings between 4th and 5th will be closed, but the crosswalk at 5th Street will remain open.
Traffic impacts
- Motorists could expect up to 15-minute delays at various times through the work zone as equipment may need to be moved. There will be two-way traffic flowing in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 160 through the first season of operations.
- A 10-foot width restriction will remain in place 24/7 through December 1.
- During inclement weather, project engineers will assess the roadway and work location to make determinations on work continuing depending on safety concerns for workers and commuters.
- Working hours are Monday through Saturday, 7am to 6pm, and subject to change.
Mountain Express Transit shared about bus stops: The River Center stop #18 has moved to 1st Street and U.S. 160 in front of the museum. Bus stop #19, 2nd Street and U.S. 160, has moved to 2nd Street and Lewis Street.
Please be alert when you are traveling through the new traffic configuration or visiting the down- town businesses as heavy equipment will be frequently moving throughout the project limits.
For the safety of the traveling public, unauthorized drone flights are prohibited over state highway property. Operating a drone over a highway right of way requires a Colorado Department of Transportation permit. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration has strict regulations for pilots operating drones over people and moving vehicles.
Safety tips for pedestrians
Watch where you are going. Do not enter the work zone or climb over work zone safety barriers. Construction work may be fascinating, but always prioritize navigating the work zone as safely as you can.
Pay attention to posted signs in the project area and follow all workers’ instructions. Cross streets at open crosswalks or intersections; walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
Be alert for moving construction vehicles and other unexpected hazards, which often move sud- denly and quickly. Stay off your phone when crossing the street or walking near the work zone.
Look out for traffic before crossing the street make eye contact with drivers so you know they see you.
Safety tips for drivers
Look out for pedestrians and bicyclists every- where, at all times, and especially in areas near schools, parks, shopping areas and transit stops.
Slow down as you approach the work zone. Give workers extra room and be prepared to stop.
Stop before a crosswalk, not in it.
The traffic signals are operational and must be obeyed.
Put your cellphone down. Never drive impaired.
Stay informed and connect with the project
Call the project information line: (970) 335-9230. Email the project team: Pagosa160reconstruction@gmail.com.