With the expected flurry of winter weather heading into the Rocky Mountains this weekend, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) warns of the potential for record-breaking traffic volumes along the Interstate 70 Mountain Corridor. Referring to historical data, particularly from the similar conditions of the 2019/2020 season, CDOT anticipates heavy ski and holiday travel traffic, despite this season's forecast of smaller, daily snow events, such data previously led to significant counts at the Eisenhower Johnson Memorial Tunnels with over 55,000 vehicles passing through on a single day.
On January 3, 2020, one for the record books, eastbound and westbound traffic at the Eisenhower Johnson Memorial Tunnels peaked with over 6,000 vehicles at 6 p.m, setting an hourly record, while the following day saw the second highest count at 4 p.m., CDOT's gathered information shows an impressive tally of weekend traffic hitting 154,541 vehicles, comparing it to January 2023's daily average of 36,373, the increase is conspicuous.
To mitigate the impending congestion, CDOT is encouraging drivers to consider alternative travel options such as their Bustang, Snowstang, and Pegasus services, which offer conveniences such as free WiFi, and stops at popular Western Slope destinations, the Winter Park Express also presents itself as a viable option with its budget-friendly fares and expanded schedule proving to be an attractive opportunity for those aiming to skip the traffic grind, in addition, the TreadShare app is promoted as an eco-friendly solution for adventurers and sociable travelers, eager to share costs and reduce overall roadway congestion, as detailed by CDOT.
For those adamant about personal travel, websites like COtrip.org and GoI70.com, alongside the COtrip Planner app, provide indispensable tools, offering live road conditions, traffic speeds, closure information, and guidance on best travel times to evade traffic snarls, the CDOT also emphasizes the importance of being winter-ready with appropriate tires and a snow emergency kit, driving cautiously, respecting snow plows by keeping a safe distance, and heeding Traction and Chain Laws when activated. These measures are of paramount importance for safe winter travel and are not just mere recommendations according to CDOT.
CDOT continues to stress the need for drivers to be informed before embarking on their journeys, with tools at their disposal such as signing up for travel alerts and checking the latest weather forecasts and road conditions through their dedicated platforms and social media channels; this proactive approach to travel planning is crucial for not only ensuring a smoother trip but also safeguarding the collective well-being of those on the roads during Colorado's notorious winter storms.
