Big news for drivers who traverse the treacherous but scenic stretch between Lyons and Estes Park: a new technological upgrade is on the horizon. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is kicking off a project on September 29 to install fiber optic cable alongside Colorado Highway 66 and to set up traffic cameras along US Highway 36. According to CDOT, this development is not only a boon to internet connectivity in local areas, but it also promises enhanced traffic management and improved communication for emergency services.
Motorists should brace for shoulder closures while the fiber optic work unfolds, and, eventually, for camera installations on US 36. "CDOT cameras help get first responders to the scene faster since they are monitored by our Operation Centers 24 hours a day. The cameras also assist the public and our plows to understand road conditions before going out," CDOT Regional Transportation Director Heather Paddock explained, as per CDOT. The cameras, which will be accessible for public viewing through the COtrip.org website or app, also serve a significant role in promoting safer driving habits.
While the project, connecting I-25 to Lyons, is extensive, it’s designed to minimize disruptions. Work is scheduled during weekdays, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with an expected completion date in December 2026. Keeping the public informed, CDOT encourages travelers to gather weather and travel impact reports, along with current road conditions, before heading out.
