More I-70 Delays Are Coming to Western Colorado: Here's Why

Travel in Western Colorado could mean a few more slowdowns than usual this week, especially if you are traveling late at night or overnight between Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction.

Two major construction projects will continue along I-70; one will close Grand Junction’s Horizon Drive interchange, while the other involves emergency repairs inside Glenwood Canyon’s Hanging Lake Tunnel.

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Hanging Lake Tunnel Repairs Could Delay Colorado Drivers

New I-70 Closures Could Surprise Grand Junction Drivers — Google Street

Not long ago, I got stuck in the Hanging Lake Tunnel delays. Westbound traffic was reduced to one lane and was stop-and-crawl from the time I entered the canyon until I reached the Tunnel entrance. Emergency repairs are restricting westbound traffic near mile markers 125-126. Crews are working on new mechanical doors and related equipment. Expect daily single-lane closures and traffic holds of up to 10 minutes for the rest of the week. They’ll stop Friday at Noon.

Grand Junction's Horizon Drive Ramps Are Closing Overnight

CDOT's Staggered westbound I-70 ramp closures took place on Sunday and Monday for resurfacing. Drivers entering westbound I-70 had to detour east to Palisade's Exit 42, while westbound motorists exiting at Horizon Drive had to keep going to Exit 28 and then turn around. Restrictions are coming on the eastbound ramps tonight. Delays of up to 15 minutes are possible.

How Long Will Colorado's I-70 Construction Delays Continue?

According to CDOT, the Hanging Lake Tunnel Project is scheduled to end on Saturday, while Grand Junction’s Horizon Drive-to-Clifton resurfacing continues into November. Drivers should expect occasional nighttime lane closures, reduced speeds, and possible delays. Before traveling Halloween weekend, check COtrip for updates and additional restrictions.

LOOK: What to See Along Colorado’s Longest Highway, US-160

U.S. Highway 160 stretches 490 miles across the state of Colorado and travels through the counties of Montezuma, La Plata, Archuleta, Mineral, Rio Grande, Alamosa, Costilla, Huerfano, Las Animas, and Baca. Here are 10 must-see attractions found along the way.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: The Story Behind Colorado's Beautiful Million Dollar Highway

In 1883, the county of Ouray commissioned Otto Mears to construct a toll road from the town of Ouray to the summit of the Uncompahgre Canyon. Scroll on to learn more about the highway Mears built through Colorado's San Juan Mountains.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

NEXT: Driving Independence Pass in Colorado? Here’s What to Expect

Colorado's Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway is true to its name, as the route includes one of the highest paved mountain roads over the Continental Divide. Independence Pass climbs to over 12,000 feet, allowing passage between the White River and the San Isabel National Forests. Here's a firsthand look at the summit and the nearby historic ghost town of Independence.

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter the structures in the Independence townsite. By doing so, you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Source: New I-70 Closures Could Surprise Grand Junction Drivers

Categories: Colorado News, Colorado Local