The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner Williams Construction will begin drainage improvements to the U.S. 160 Wolf Creek Pass tunnel starting Monday, Sept. 23.
The tunnel, located between South Fork and the pass summit (mile point 174), will be closed throughout the duration of the project. Motorists can anticipate minimal travel impacts as they will be guided by signage onto the nearby tunnel bypass lanes. Work is expected to be complete in November.
The tunnel work zone is located on the east side of Wolf Creek Pass, approximately 10 miles west of South Fork and 7 miles east of Wolf Creek Ski Area. The purpose of this safety project is to improve drainage near the east entrance of the tunnel, reducing the potential for icy and hazardous conditions during the winter season.
“Over the past few winters, maintenance crews have noticed an increase in the amount of moisture on the road surface at this tunnel entrance. The new drainage system will divert water off of the travel lanes and reduce the frequency of icy or slick conditions,” said Julie Constan, regional transportation director.
The project will update the existing underdrain system that runs in the center of the eastbound travel lane with a larger, improved drainage system. Crews will install manholes at both ends of the tunnel to improve maintenance access. Additional work includes the replacement of several concrete panels and the installation of delineators near the drainage structures.
Beginning Sept. 23, work hours will range from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Traffic impacts will include:
