Construction in Lefthand Canyon is now in full swing and moving along quickly thanks in large part to the weekday road closures. Clearing and excavation work still is the predominant task on site, but other activities are starting to ramp up. Preliminary work is being done to prepare for massive rock removal efforts. Drill rigs (see attached photo) have begun creating holes that will hold the explosive material needed to clear the rock and other material that sits where the road will eventually be built. The material removed will be reused throughout the project area to fortify the new road and to help rebuild the creek itself. If all goes according to schedule, rock removal operations will begin early next week and will continue on a daily basis (weekdays only) as long as necessary. Canyon residents may hear a loud noise when charges are detonated, but I have been assured by the contractor that there is no danger to the public or any structures located within the canyon. Considerable safety measures are used when transporting and using explosive materials to ensure that all goes according to plan and that no one gets hurt.

Preparations have also begun for the construction of two new bridges within the first work zone. As soon as the bridge contractor is ready to begin, traffic will be diverted onto temporary bypasses, or “shooflys,” that are currently being built. These bypass roads will be gravel and we ask that travelers please slow down when crossing them. The contractor and Boulder County Road Maintenance will do their best to keep them clear of snow and ice during any winter weather event.

Clarification on early morning and evening travel restrictions:

The contractor has the ability to enforce travel delays of up to 30-minutes between 7 and 8 a.m. and between 4 and 5 p.m. on weekdays. They’ll do their best to keep the use of this to a minimum, but they will be necessary to keep the job on schedule for a November completion. The road will always be open at 7, 7:30, and 8 a.m. prior to closing the road for the day. The road will always reopen at 4 and 4:30 p.m. before completely reopening it at 5 p.m.

As days grow longer, the contractor will be permitted to work later hours. As working hours are extended, the contractor will ensure the road is open every half-hour starting at 4 p.m. each weekday.

During the first phase of construction that will last until May 20, 2016, access to Lee Hill Drive and Olde Stage Road will be maintained at all times in order to bypass the construction zone without delay.

I’m sorry for any confusion and inconveniences that have been experienced during the first few days of the full closure period.

I hope this information is useful. Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, or concerns about the project.

Have a good day.

Andrew

Andrew Barth
Communications
Boulder County Transportation
303-441-1032
LefthandCanyon.com