Work under way to improve I-76 and 96th Avenue interchange

COMMERCE CITY – Safety improvements to the I-76 and 96th Avenue interchange are under way.

The project, which is expected to be complete by the end of January (weather permitting), will construct two roundabouts at the on and off-ramps of this interchange and will construct slip ramps from the I-76 on and off-ramps. The roundabouts will help reduce traffic accidents at this interchange. During the first week of construction (the week of June 15), crews will conduct preliminary setup work with minor impacts to traffic.

Detour routes will be provided, but alternate routes are strongly encouraged.

Beginning the week of June 22, the contractor will realign 96th Avenue so that eastbound traffic will be carried on the existing westbound lane; westbound traffic will be carried on new detour pavement. Traffic will then be transitioned back to the existing mainline alignment.

In addition, 96th Avenue will be reduced to 11-foot lanes with only one lane open in each direction. There will be no left- or right-turn lanes. The northeast and northwest frontage roads will also be reduced to 11-foot lanes for approximately 700 feet. No parking will be allowed along the frontage roads. The speed limit approaching and within the construction area will be 20 mph. The westbound off-ramp from I-76 and the eastbound on-ramp to I-76 will be closed during this phase, which is expected to last approximately three months. Detour routes will be set up, which will take motorists to 88th Avenue.

During the remainder of June and the first half of July, pavement removal, storm pipe and grading work will take place. Westbound 96th Avenue lane closures will occur at various times, which will require single-lane alternating traffic with flaggers.

If you need more information or have questions, call 303-287-2109.