GARFIELD COUNTY, CO — The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) announces the reopening of traffic on the westbound deck of Interstate 70 in Glenwood Canyon. Crews working on the I-70 Glenwood Canyon Surface Improvements project recently completed the project milestone. Westbound traffic has returned to the northern deck. While motorists should expect continued lane closures throughout the canyon, the head-to-head detour ends with the reopening of the traffic deck.

“Our local communities and statewide travelers know the vital role that I-70 in Glenwood Canyon plays in our state's transportation network,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “For Colorado, this project helps to improve the longevity of this critical infrastructure and ensure the safe, multimodal movement of people and goods.”

The I-70 Glenwood Canyon Surface Improvements project has faced and overcome several challenges over the course of the seven month project duration. Before project work, I-70 westbound road conditions between Hanging Lake and No Name were poor and deteriorating. The driving surface was rough and uneven and several elements were exhibiting wear and beginning to fail.

Construction crews began project work just before the national escalation of the COVID-19 health crisis, and quickly worked to implement safety precautions. Throughout construction, general contractor American Civil Constructors worked to efficiently complete repairs and improvements.

The project recently faced yet another challenge when the Grizzly Creek Fire erupted in Glenwood Canyon, causing an unprecedented two week closure of I-70.

“Despite all the challenges this project has faced, the engineering and contracting team have been able to deliver impressive progress,” said CDOT Region 3 Transportation Director Michael Goolsby. “This is a great example of partnership and leadership at its finest.”

This eight-month improvement project included resurfacing I-70 with a placement of thin bonded polyester concrete overlay, replacement of bridge joints and bearings, new pavement markings, and ADA ramp improvements at rest areas. Construction occurred within approximately 6.2 miles on I-70 in the Glenwood Canyon, from mile point (MP) 117.6 to MP 125.

Polyester concrete overlay is the primary construction activity for this project. Upgrading this section of roadway will minimize the need for annual repairs as this road surface application is more durable and has a significantly longer lifespan than asphalt. This project will provide an improved driving surface and help ensure the longevity and safety of the infrastructure.