The Colorado Department of Transportation announced the commencement of a resurfacing project on CO 71 south of CO 14, with expectations to wrap up the work by late November. This project is set to enhance roadway safety and improve driving conditions along an approximately four-mile stretch situated south of CO 14 and just north of Snyder and Brush. According to CDOT in a social media post, work was scheduled to begin in late July.
The overhaul of CO 71, also known as the Heartland Expressway, will incorporate milling the current asphalt and then overlaying a new concrete pavement to ensure a smoother ride. "The project will include milling the existing asphalt, followed by an overlay of new concrete pavement," as per CDOT. Culvert extensions, a solar-powered warning beacon, and rumble strips are also part of the package to reduce water damage and better alert drivers. Motorists should plan for Monday to Friday work hours, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and keep in mind that the schedule is contingent on weather conditions and could change.
Travel impacts are going to be noticed immediately with shoulder closures between CR 78 and CO 14 due to slope grading and embankment activities. Work is already underway, starting north of CR 78. An imminent 24/7 full closure of CO 71 between CO 14 and I-76 is slated to commence in early August, necessary for prepping the surface for the pavement overlay, but access for local traffic will remain unaffected.
There will also be detours affecting northbound travel on the Heartland Expressway, causing drivers to take a roundabout route. From Brush, motorists are advised to "travel westbound on I-76 to Colorado Highway 52 in Fort Morgan. Head north on CO 52 to CO 14. Then, travel east on CO 14 to reconnect with CO 71," CDOT posted. Detour signage is expected to be in place to guide drivers throughout the construction phase.
