The US550-US160 Connection South Project improved travel efficiency and safety while reducing the occurrence of severe crashes. Some 60 percent of crashes in the area were caused by wildlife, but others were due to narrow shoulders, obstructed clear zones, and dangerous curves prone to icing and congestion. Uncontrolled access points forced drivers to enter the highway without clear sight lines, and county road intersections lacked proper alignment and lanes. Led by the Colorado Department of Transportation, the $88 million contract value project made the highway safer and more efficient. It expanded 4.5 miles of two-lane highway to four lanes with 10-foot shoulders, increased recovery areas, and addressed clear zone obstructions. Intersections were realigned to improve visibility and safety, and access points were consolidated or redesigned for safer entry and exit. A new frontage road improved access for residents and businesses. To reduce wildlife collisions, the project added eight-foot exclusion fencing, deer guards, and jump-outs for animals. This collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies benefited southwest Colorado by improving safety, traffic flow, and communication throughout construction.
America's Transportation Awards 