The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will install new lighting on U.S. Highway 160 at three access roads to Towaoc and the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation south of Cortez. The eight-day project will start Monday, June 13 and is expected to be completed by Wednesday, June 22.
More than 200 solar LED lights will be installed and embedded into the highway’s pavement to enhance the nighttime visibility for drivers accessing the three highway junctions, auxiliary lanes, and merging lanes to Towaoc and the Ute Mountain Casino. The lights will be installed at the intersection of Highway 160 and Yellow Hat Drive, Weeminuche Drive and Mike Wash road.
The installed lighting for this stretch of highway, which can see up to 7,000 vehicles daily, will improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, according to CDOT. The project will cost $50,000 and work will be completed by CDOT crews, said CDOT communications manager Lisa Schwantes.
Motorists should expect single-lane alternating traffic with up to 15 minute delays during working daylight hours, Monday through Friday. The speed limit will be reduced to 40 mph during the project. Motorists are advised to adhere to posted speed limits and use caution while traveling through the work zone.
