Pueblo drivers facing busiest construction season in decades

More than $100 million worth of construction projects are happening in Pueblo this year.

It will be the busiest year Pueblo construction crews have seen in decades, according to Colorado Department of Transportation resident engineer Joe DeHeart.

DeHeart said there are five major projects planned for this year, with three already underway:

-$69 million project for the New Pueblo Freeway, which includes replacing bridges on I-25 between Ilex Street and City Center Drive, and repairing four bridges (it’s scheduled to begin in June)

-$13 million project widening eastbound lanes on U.S. 50 West between Wills and Purcell boulevards (it’s estimated to be done in October)

-$11 million project adding an overpass over I-25 by Dillon Drive

-$7 million project repaving Colorado 47 from I-25 to Colorado State University-Pueblo

-$6.5 million project repaving Pueblo Boulevard from I-25 to Thatcher and adding handicap ramps (it’s scheduled to begin this fall)

“A lot of work behind the scenes trying to get that money to Pueblo and now we’re finally seeing that effort and getting some roads fixed,” DeHeart said.

DeHeart said that a third westbound lane will also be added on U.S. 50 in the next year or two.

Colorado State Patrol will also boost its presence near construction zones to make sure people are obeying the laws and making sure the workers are safe. Troopers say if you are caught speeding or distracted in a construction zone, you could face up to a $500 fine.