The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) began work on its statewide camera installation project in south-central Colorado on March 30. The first installations took place at the intersection of US Highway 24 and US 285 at Antero Junction, followed by sites near Manitou Springs/Cascade Canyon and Cripple Creek. CDOT plans to replace 66 cameras across the state as part of a move to a fully state-owned and managed network, with completion expected by fall 2027.
The new camera infrastructure is intended to improve long-term reliability, reduce costs, and give CDOT greater operational control. This matters because many cameras are located in remote areas where residents depend on them for up-to-date highway conditions.
Motorists should expect minimal impacts from construction since most work will occur off the roadway. Work includes removing existing poles, installing caissons for new poles, and adding conduit for fiber connections or utility power where needed. According to the official website, CDOT oversees transportation infrastructure across Colorado and aims to deliver an effective multi-modal system that safely transports people, goods, and information while enhancing quality of life.
In July 2025, more than 90 cameras were removed from CDOT’s system as it transitioned away from third-party vendors due to longstanding performance issues. The department continues operating over 1,000 cameras statewide through COtrip.org for real-time road and weather updates. In critical coverage areas during this transition period, solar-powered cameras were installed on existing infrastructure or placed on portable trailers at priority locations for flexible monitoring.
Public feedback played a role in identifying high-use locations for camera placement. CDOT is also considering similar solutions elsewhere as part of ongoing network modernization efforts. The department provides additional resources such as color-coded road condition maps and traveler alerts through COtrip.org to help motorists plan safe journeys throughout the state.
According to the official website, Shoshana Lew serves as executive director of CDOT. The agency operates within the transportation sector focusing on highway maintenance along with support for aviation and transit projects.
