The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced that crews have finished a four‑mile maintenance paving project on Highway 115 in northern Fremont County. The work, carried out this summer, addresses a notoriously rough segment of the highway that sits between a recently completed safety improvement in El Paso County and an upcoming concrete‑panel repair project in Penrose.
What the project entailed
Rather than a full reconstruction, CDOT performed maintenance paving – a cost‑effective method that lays a fresh layer of asphalt over the existing surface. This approach allows the road to remain open to traffic while extending its useful life without the expense of removing the old pavement first.
Why maintenance paving was chosen
CDOT officials explained that the primary problem on this stretch is “alligator cracking,” a pattern of interconnected cracks caused by age, freeze‑thaw cycles, and heavy truck traffic. Because there is no funding earmarked for a full repaving in the next several years, the department opted for maintenance paving, which it expects to last between two and five years.
Impact on local drivers
Residents and commercial drivers in Fremont County will notice a smoother ride and reduced wear on vehicles. The project also improves safety by mitigating the risk of damage to tires and suspension components that can result from severe pavement cracking.
Future plans for Highway 115
South of the newly paved segment, CDOT is nearing completion of a project that will repair hundreds of cracked concrete panels in Penrose. North of the work zone, a 2024 safety improvement project in El Paso County addressed similar concerns, creating a more continuous corridor of reliable roadway for the region.
Funding outlook
While the maintenance paving provides a short‑term solution, CDOT officials stress that a full repaving will require dedicated funding in future transportation budgets. In the meantime, the department’s proactive approach ensures that motorists can travel safely and efficiently across this vital north‑south route.
For more information about CDOT projects and upcoming road work in Colorado, visit the agency’s website or contact the Fremont County transportation office.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
