By Colorado Department of Transportation
The Colorado Department of Transportation, in partnership with Elam Construction, completed the resurfacing and culvert improvement project along CO Highway 151, east of Ignacio, just before the winter holiday season.
The project improved approximately 13 miles of rural roadway from the La Plata/Archuleta county line to Old Coal Mine Road (Mile Points 12.8 to 26). The project began February 17, and crews finalized punch list items last week ahead of the scheduled November 21 completion date.
“By improving the condition of this rural route, we are enhancing the quality of life for all highway users that depend on this route as a connection to critical services and points of interests in outlying communities,” said Transportation Director Julie Constan. “The new pavement will increase the longevity and durability of the road surface and the culvert improvements will mitigate the chance of flood related hazards.”
In addition to removal of the old asphalt and a newly paved surface, the project made improvements to six culverts including repairing one culvert, cleaning out two culverts and replacing three culverts throughout the project limit. Improvements and replacement of culverts will accommodate higher accumulations of rainfall and lower the risks associated with flooding to maintain safe driving conditions. Additional safety features include rumble strip installation, road sign replacement, fresh striping and guardrail updates.
New guardrails were installed that are 31 inches high and designed to meet new safety standard requirements. The higher railing will help veering vehicles remain on the road more effectively, making the highway safer for traveling public.