Traffic cameras are coming from Lyons to Estes Park on US 36

Travel Advisory

Boulder and Larimer counties - The Colorado Department of Transportation kicks-off a new technology project on Sept. 29, bringing fiber optic cable to Colorado Highway 66 and traffic cameras to US Highway 36.

Contractor, Dillie and Kuhn, will begin installing fiber optic cable from I-25 to Lyons offering support for the US 36 traffic cameras. Fiber optic also extends internet access to local communities, helps to manage traffic equipment for CDOT and improves communication for emergency services.

The traveling public can expect shoulder closures while the fiber optic is being installed. Once it is completed, crews will move to US 36 with the introduction of traffic cameras.

"CDOT cameras help get first responders to the scene faster since they are monitored by our Operation Centers 24 hours a day. The cameras also assist the public and our plows to understand road conditions before going out. Having the cameras along US 36 will be greatly beneficial as the canyon corridor has experienced flood, fire, strong winds and heavy snow over the years," said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Heather Paddock.

Traffic cameras are viewable by the public on the COtrip.org website or app.

Information Technology Systems are a critical part of keeping the traveling public safe. Studies have shown that traffic cameras help to encourage safer driving behavior.

Schedule and Impacts

The CO 66 and US 36 project is slated to go until December of 2026 with minimal impacts to motorists. Work will occur weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Contact Information

• Website: codot.gov/projects/us36co66fiber
• Phone: 970-844-0415
• Email: [email protected]

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to "know before you go." Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• Check scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

• Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
• Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
• Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
• Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
• Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
• Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
• Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
• Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
• Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
• Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!