Construction has begun to replace the full depth of pavement on a 2.25-mile stretch east of I-25 and C-470 interchange, according to Jo Snell, E-470 public information officer.

“The project goes from now until hopefully finalizing in November,” Snell said.

The work being done is on the original five-mile portion of E-470 that opened in Douglas County in 1991. Drivers will encounter lane shifts and speed reductions on E-470 immediately east of the I-25/C-470 interchange.

During the first phase, eastbound traffic will shift over the median to the westbound lanes, and concrete barriers will separate eastbound and westbound traffic between Jamaica Street exit and the west side of the toll plaza.

“We are urging drivers to use caution in the work zones,” E-470 executive director Ed DeLozier said. “The safety of our customers and construction workers is crucial.”

Road shoulders will be narrowed but two lanes in each direction will be maintained at all times, with speed limits reduced from 70 mph to 60 mph throughout the work zone.

The $8.1 million construction project by Lafarge will provide a smoother and quieter driving surface employing stone matrix asphalt that also reduces road spray. According to Melissa Hernandez, from Christopherson & Co. Communications, part of the old pavement will be recycled and included in the new pavement to reduce costs and provide environmental sustainability.