Emergency repairs begin on Denver West bridge requiring eastbound I-70 lane closures

News Release

October 29, 2021 - Central/Eastern Colorado - Commercial vehicle struck the bridge in September

Jefferson County - Emergency repairs are scheduled to begin Sunday night, Oct. 31, on the Denver West bridge that was struck by a commercial vehicle last month.  The work will require overnight lane closures below the bridge on eastbound interstate 70 in November and some daytime lane closures in mid-November and December.

Lane closure schedule on eastbound I-70 under the Denver West bridge: 

  • Oct. 31 to Nov. 5 (Sunday - Friday), and the following week, Nov. 7 to Nov. 10, each night, double lane closures from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. One lane will remain open.  There could be some delays, but not significant since the work is overnight when the traffic volumes are lower. 

  • Friday, Nov. 19 and Monday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., both days, single lane closure for crews to pour concrete.  This work must be done in the daytime when temperatures are above freezing.  Delays could be moderate, around one-mile lasting up to ten minutes mostly from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

  • Sunday, Dec. 12, 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., single lane closure for crews to complete repairs.

  • One lane on the Denver West bridge will remain closed until repairs are complete later in December.

  • There will be no closures on westbound I-70.

The schedule above could change depending on the weather.  Go to COtrip.org for the latest information on lane closures.

Work entails repairing four of the bridge girders.  One of the girders was significantly damaged by the bridge hit with minor damage to three others.  The bridge is structurally safe due to a redundant system of many girders.  CDOT has been monitoring the bridge daily as a safety precaution.

Remember: Slow for the Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.

  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.

  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.

  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so

  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.

  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.

  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.

  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.

  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.

  • Be patient!

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include: