ADA ramp and lighting improvements begin this week on U.S. 50 and U.S. 291 in Salida

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the City of Salida began construction updates along U.S. 50 and U.S. 291 in Salida this week. Crews mobilized on Monday, March 29, to set up control signage and devices. Work on the project, intended to enhance pedestrian and road safety, is expected to be completed by mid-August.

The City of Salida, as a partner in the improvement project, will also be upgrading sidewalks, curb and gutter systems, patterned median concrete, and conduits for street lighting along U.S. 50 and Palmer St. to CO 291, or Oak St. CDOT’s portion of the project includes work on ramps to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at various intersections on U.S. 50 and CO 291. The project ensures that the city is meeting current federal ADA standards for enhanced accessibility and pedestrian safety. The crews will also be upgrading sidewalks, curb and gutter systems, and performing asphalt patching.

Construction will take place along US 50 and CO 291 in Salida. Courtesy of the City of Salida and CDOT.

Work on U.S. 291 will span Wood Ave, B St., D St., E St., G St., I St., L St., M St., N St., and O St.

Work on U.S. 50 will take place from MP 220.48 to 223.40 and East 15th St. Work will run during daylight hours, Monday through Saturday. Motorists should drive with caution, slow down, and allow themselves additional travel time.

Traffic delays are expected to be minimal, and there will be shoulder closures and single-lane closures throughout project construction. Access to streets and driveways will be impacted, and alternate routes will be marked with signage. Access for businesses and property owners may be impacted but will be maintained. The speed limit will be lowered to 40 MPH and strictly enforced in the U.S. 50 work zone. Traffic fines will be doubled in the work zone.

Pedestrians and bicyclists should be aware of travel impacts as well. Sidewalk closures will be guided by flaggers during working hours and impacted sidewalks will be blocked with barricades and orange fencing overnight and on weekends. Pedestrians, cyclists, and skateboarders are not allowed in construction areas.

More information can be found on the project’s webpage. Additionally, those with questions or concerns can call 719-430-4525 or email salidaimprovements@gmail.com.

Travelers are encouraged to gather information about weather forecasts, expected travel impacts, and current road conditions prior to setting out. CDOT resources can be found online.