Construction of several chain stations to begin April 15

The Colorado Department of Transportation, with its contract partner, Williams Construction, will begin work on the region-wide chain station improvements project to help ensure that commercial drivers have a safe location to chain up or down while traveling in the high country. 

Work will begin in mid-April along several mountain passes in Archuleta, Chaffee, Conejos, Costilla, San Miguel and Mineral counties. The traveling public can expect daytime shoulder closures. The project is scheduled for completion in the fall of 2024.

Project work consists of chain station improvements on:

• Colo. 145: Lizard Head Pass (mile Points 67-69) 
• Colo. 145: Lawson Hill near Telluride (MP 70-72) 
• U.S. 160: Wolf Creek Pass (MP 172-174) 
• U.S. 160: La Veta Pass (MP 275-277) 
• U.S. 50: Monarch Pass (MP 208-210) 
• Colo. 17: Cumbres Pass (MP 0-1)

“During adverse winter driving conditions, commercial drivers will now have a safe retreat to put chains on their tires,” said Regional Transportation Director Julie Constan. “Additionally, these critical safety features along our mountain passes will encourage drivers to use chains and be in compliance with Colorado's chain law.” 

Traffic impacts 

Motorists and area residents can expect the following impacts during construction: 

• Work will occur during daytime hours, Monday through Friday .
• Single-lane closures and shoulder closures will take place within the work zone. 
• Reduced speeds in the work zone. 
• Plan ahead and expect brief delays. 
• Construction schedules are weather dependent.