The Colorado Department of Transportation announced on Mar. 26 that construction has started on a new westbound Interstate 70 alignment as part of the I-70 Floyd Hill Project in Clear Creek County. The project includes building a cast-in-place segmental bridge, known as “The Live Lift,” which will carry westbound traffic along the hillside south of Clear Creek and is expected to continue through mid-2027.
This development aims to address safety concerns and improve traffic flow by reducing the steep grade and sharp curve currently experienced by drivers at Floyd Hill. The bridge will be constructed approximately 20 to 30 feet above the existing I-70 alignment near the US 6 interchange (Exit 244). According to project details, crews will pour concrete sections piece by piece from each pier column until the full span connects, allowing for long spans with minimal impact on motorists and surrounding areas.
During construction, intermittent overnight closures of I-70 are planned during non-peak hours to install and reposition a movable platform called a form traveler used in building the bridge segments. Additional overnight closures on westbound I-70 are expected starting in early April. Motorists should also anticipate periodic traffic holds for rockblasting and rockscaling operations through 2026, occurring Mondays through Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., with holds every hour or so when these activities take place.
To stay informed about traffic impacts related to this project, travelers can sign up for text alerts or weekly advisories provided by CDOT. Eastbound motorists affected by closures will be directed via detours using local ramps and roads.
According to the official website, the Colorado Department of Transportation works to improve quality of life for residents through integrated transportation solutions. The department oversees transportation infrastructure across Colorado, including interstates, U.S. highways, state highways, aviation grants, and transit support according to CDOT. Shoshana Lew serves as executive director according to CDOT.
Looking ahead, work on “The Live Lift” bridge is set to continue into mid-2027 as part of ongoing efforts by CDOT—whose mission includes delivering an effective multi-modal system while enhancing environmental standards—to ensure safer travel throughout Colorado.
