A new technology for culvert repairs is coming to five counties in southwest and south-central Colorado, with 20 culverts receiving improvements by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and contracting partner American West Construction.
Beginning mid-July, crews will start work on U.S. 24, south of Buena Vista, implementing an advanced liner that has a 50-year design life. The liner allows for the trenchless rehabilitation of pipes while the pipe is still operational and in place. The liner is pulled into the existing culvert pipe using a special tool to inflate it, which eliminates any creases or damage and creates a smooth internal surface.
The new technology requires less time and creates fewer impacts to the traveling public by avoiding trenching and major excavation. The process starts with clearing the area around the culvert openings and then cleaning the culvert. Installing the liner is estimated to take a matter of hours. For most culverts, the entire operation for one repair takes only one day.
The project is expected to conclude in October with minimal impacts to motorists. Working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some weekend work is anticipated. The schedule has crews starting at the eastern side of the region and progressing west for repairs.
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