Southwest Colorado motorists can expect construction on U.S. Highway 491 through the summer on a Colorado Department of Transportation project that started last week.

The construction affects about a mile of the road west of downtown Cortez, from North Street to Lebanon Road. The project involves new concrete paving, as well as new median islands and street lighting, CDOT Communications Manager Lisa Schwantes said in an email. The $7 million project also includes relocation of utilities and sewer systems, as well as realignment of Lebanon Road to allow drivers to turn on and off the highway more safely, she said.

“This reconstruction will provide for a long-lasting, durable roadway with a 20- to 30-year road life,” Schwantes said.

Currently, the western side of the road – normally the southbound traffic lanes – is closed. Traffic is restricted to one northbound and one southbound lane, which is in a head-to-head configuration on the eastern side of the road.

Later this summer, construction will switch sides and crews will work on the east side of the highway, said CDOT Communications Manager Tracy Trulove.

“We advise drivers to pay attention, especially in the head-to-head zones,” Trulove said. “People should make sure to be aware of their surroundings.”

CDOT crews have added a temporary stop sign where northbound traffic merges with the highway at the intersection of North Street and Highway 491.

No alternate routes have been established for the project, so drivers should stay on U.S. 491 instead of detouring down city streets, Trulove said.

Drivers wishing to access businesses on the west side of the highway must drive across the western side of the highway, which currently is unpaved.

CDOT is required to keep access to businesses open, Trulove said. CDOT crews will work with businesses to increase signage if necessary, she said.