Western Slope Rain Delays Road Construction Projects

Unusually heavy rain on Colorado’s Western Slope has slowed road construction, with more than half an inch falling in the first five days of November—nearly five times the typical amount. Saturated soil has forced crews to pause work because heavy equipment can get stuck and wet ground cannot be compacted to the stability road projects require; some areas may take days or weeks to dry. Flooding also washed out part of a temporary dam at the Orchard Avenue project, requiring repairs, while wet conditions are affecting work on Orchard Avenue and 32 1/2 Road. Rain may help ease drought conditions, but the resulting damage and muddy access routes are disrupting construction and frustrating travelers.