DOT begins ADA ramp project in Manassa

CONEJOS COUNTY – The Colorado Department of Transportation and Contractor KSK, LLC, will begin work on Aug. 9 to construct new ramps and sidewalks in Manassa, Conejos County. The newly constructed ramps will meet mandated standards by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The project also includes Public Rights of Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG). PROWAG promotes equality for people with disabilities through design and development of accessibility guidelines and standards.

The project is located between Mile Point 1.75 and MP 3.80 on Colorado Highway 142 (Main Street), within the community of Manassa from 1st Street to 9th Street and the Manassa Eastfield Ditch. Work will improve curb ramps, sections of adjacent sidewalks, curbs and gutters at several intersections and two mid-block locations: 9th Street, 8th Street, Mid-Block between 8th Street and 7th Street, 7th Street, 6th Street, 4th Street, 3rd Street, 2nd Street, Mid-Block between 1st Street and 2nd Street.

Enhanced ADA curb ramps are intended to provide pedestrians access between the sidewalk and street with ease when a vertical change in elevation is present. For those with disabilities, curb edges can be hazardous and requirements are put in place to help prevent dangerous situations such as people falling out of wheelchairs, or while using a cane or walker.

“We are very pleased with the partnership we have developed with the Town of Manassa,” said Southwest Regional Transportation Director, Julie Constan. “By combining CDOT ADA Ramp Funds with the town’s recently awarded Multi Modal Options Funds, we are able to work together and leverage available dollars to move this project forward. This will be a wonderful enhancement to the community.” 

CDOT ADA Ramp Funds will cover $500,000 of the project, specifically for the ramp construction. Meanwhile, the Town of Manassa will contribute approximately $1 million through Multi Modal Options Funds and a Department of Local Affairs grant for the new sidewalks and curb and gutter improvements.

Project Schedule

Work is scheduled for August 9 and is expected to last until late September. Normal working hours will be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Travel Impacts

·      Travelers by car, bike, wheelchair or foot can expect various lane and sidewalk closures where work zones exist.

· Sidewalks may be closed at times during the day, overnight or over weekends to allow the concrete to set and cure.

· Please note temporary closures may be enforced for businesses and residences to allow the concrete to set and cure.

· Crews will do their best to maintain access for businesses and residences, with access temporarily altered.