Full closure the next step in WCR 74 & 33 roundabout construction
Published on April 04, 2023
Over the next few months, the intersection of Weld County Road (WCR) 74 and WCR 33, located west of Eaton, will start to take a new look as work begins to physically transform the intersection into a roundabout. To allow crews the time and space needed to complete the roundabout’s construction safely and in the most efficient manner possible, the Weld County Board of Commissioners has approved the full closure of the intersection beginning Monday, April 17, 2023, until Monday, Aug. 14, 2023.
“With every road project, we look at safety and how to minimize the inconvenience for the traveling public,” said Curtis Hall, Director of the Weld County Department of Public Works. “We’re pleased that we’ve been able to keep the intersection open through much of the prep work getting to this point, but it’s necessary to close the intersection to build the roundabout, which is an enhancement aimed at reducing congestion and the risk of broadside accidents as traffic demand at the intersection continues to increase.”
During the closure, drivers are asked to be aware of the paved detours. East and westbound traffic on WCR 74 can utilize either WCR 35, or WCR 31 to connect to WCR 76. North and southbound traffic on WCR 33 can utilize either WCR 76 or WCR 72 to access WCR 31.
Lawson Construction will construct the roundabout and Public Works will serve as project manager. Some of the elements of roundabout construction crews will be completing over the next few months include establishing the legs of the roundabout, concrete and asphalt paving, completing tie-in work to connect the roundabout to existing portions of the road WCR 74 and WCR 33, signing, striping and drainage work, and reclamation work, some of which will continue after the roundabout is open in August.
Upon the roundabout’s completion, residents can expect it to have many of the same features as previous county roundabouts built at WCR 54 and WCR 17 and 35th Ave. and O St. Some of those features include wider lanes to accommodate regular vehicles as well as large agricultural vehicles and tractor trailers, a concrete driving surface, which will help the roundabout achieve a 30-year lifespan before major maintenance is necessary and a right turning lane, allowing drivers from all directions to exit to the right upon entering the roundabout.
To stay up to date on construction progress, residents can sign up for email alerts. Simply enter an email address and select WCR 74, 33 Roundabout.