Overpass demolition on Fillmore begins

If you’re driving along I-25 tonight, expect some major delays. Crews are working on demolishing the overpass to build a new one.

For the next few months, I-25 at Fillmore will be undergoing some major changes.

“We’re building two bridges to control traffic and will cross over and give free left-turn access for people to access I-25,” said Ted Tjerandse, project manager.

Before the overpass is complete, it needs to be shut down. Thursday, Sunday and Monday, from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., the overpass will be closed to drivers across and underneath.

“We will divert all approaching traffic,” said Tjerandse.

North and southbound drivers will have to exit at Fillmore then get right back on the ramp to get on the interstate.

“It’s just a big hassle. Fillmore always sucks, traffic is becoming like Denver in the Springs,” said Angela Damico.

A hassle for some drivers that’s expected to last till next summer. One of the reasons why the overpass won’t be completed for several months is because it hasn’t been worked on since the 1970s.

“The interchange was definitely outdated and this design is going to do a 70 percent improvement to the movement of traffic at the completion of the job,” said Tjerandse.

In the meantime, C-DOT is asking for drivers to have patience and to give themselves extra time on commutes.

Crews hope to be done by next summer but that’s all dependent upon Mother Nature this winter. When the overpass is complete, it’s expected to last up to 75 years.