Winter is coming for Colorado drivers
Information and photo provided by Colorado Department of Transportation
Information and photo provided by Colorado Department of Transportation
The first dusting of snow has already happened in the Castle Pines community. As residents travel throughout the state and along the I-25 South Gap construction zone between Castle Rock and Monument, here are some helpful reminders for the winter driving season ahead:
- Ensure vehicles are winter-ready with adequate tires for conditions. Plan to have an emergency kit with supplies on hand, including a blanket, warm clothing, water and food.
- Leave plenty of space between vehicles when traveling in snowy and icy conditions.
- Go slow; do not exceed the speed limit. The speed limit will be reduced during winter storms, so pay attention to the variable speed limit signs throughout the South Gap construction zone.
- Expect Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) crews to pretreat roadways prior to a storm and snowplows to be out in full force when a storm begins. Never pass the snowplows.
- Stay off I-25 between Monument and Castle Rock during inclement weather. There aren’t services like hotels and restaurants in this rural stretch, and gas stations are extremely limited. In addition, evacuation centers will not operate at full capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions.
- Depending on the severity of the weather, CDOT may have to proactively close I-25 for the safety of motorists. If I-25 closes, drivers can expect Colorado Highways 83 and 105 to close as well. Closing I-25 in the construction zone area prevents motorists from being stuck in treacherous weather conditions with no nearby services.
Remember – high speeds and following too closely are the leading causes of crashes in the I-25 South Gap corridor. Crews and first responders depend on motorists to follow posted speeds and leave plenty of space between vehicles, especially in severe weather conditions. Throughout the duration of a storm, use CDOT’s Facebook page, Twitter account, cotrip.org and 511 for information on roadway conditions.
