MOFFAT COUNTY, CO — The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and contractor partner Elam Construction announce work is wrapping up on the resurfacing project along US Highway 40 from Sand Springs Gulch to Craig. During construction, work took place on US 40 for 12 miles from approximately Mile Point 80, at Sand Springs Gulch, to MP 92, east of Craig, as well as a section of CO 13 on Yampa Avenue. Work included a 2-inch hot mix asphalt overlay west of Craig, 2-inch mill and fill in Craig, rumble strip installation, and pavement marking.

In addition to the overlay, crews replaced the signal on US 40 at Green Street. Work there included removal and replacement of the old signal poles and mast arms. New signals were installed along with vehicle detection upgrades, three new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant curb ramps, curb, and gutter. Crews will complete final concrete work on a frontage road in spring 2023.

“When improvements take place on US 40 in Northwest Colorado, it warms the hearts of Moffat, Routt, Rio Blanco, Jackson, and Grand counties to have dollars being spent locally,” said Northwestern Transportation Planning Region Chair Heather Sloop. “I thank the county and the communities for their patience during this project, and here’s to many more projects in the future.”

The overlay will add approximately 10 years of life to the highway, provide a smoother road surface, and will improve durability by increasing the resistance of ruts and road damage. This will allow for a smoother and safer drive for motorists.

CDOT, representatives from the City of Craig, the Moffat County Visitor Center/Craig Chamber of Commerce, and Elam Construction gathered in Craig to celebrate the completion of the project.

“The paving project is something that has increased the aesthetics of the community and traveling through Craig,” said City of Craig Council Member Chris Nichols. “Thank you to CDOT, the project team, and contractors for making this happen.”

The new ADA ramps are in compliance with the Public Right of Way Accessibility Guidelines requirements and will provide functional accessibility to all travelers using state and U.S. highways.

“The last time there were similar resurfacing improvements on US 40 in this area was in 1999,” said Project Engineer Cole Rising. “This project team and Elam construction delivered a notably high quality roadway surface and related safety improvements."

Other benefits of the project included installation of rumble strips, which will warn motorists when they are leaving their lane and help with crash reductions.