The Colorado Department of Transportation and Medved Global will begin work on Monday, April 9, to improve accessibility for people with disabilities in the south section of downtown Dolores.

Curb ramps will be constructed at eight locations along Colorado Highway 145 from Second Street to Eighth Street, as well as the intersections of 14th and 19th, CDOT said in a news release.

The project is part of an $85 million statewide initiative, funded by the Colorado State Transportation Commission, to provide functional accessibility to all travelers using state highways. Dolores is one of the first communities this spring to be upgraded with features that observe the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“We are excited to take this significant step toward demonstrating a commitment of allocating considerable financial, programmatic and human resources to this accessibility effort,” said CDOT Executive Director Michael Lewis.

Because Colorado 145 is a wide road allowing for ample workspace, travel impacts are expected to be minimal. There is a possibility of one-lane closures, but Medved Global, the prime contractor for the project, is optimistic that this will not create delays for travelers, CDOT said. However, any significant impact will be announced via email and on the project website. The community is encouraged to sign up for notifications.

The project is expected to be completed in 50 days. Normal working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday and extended and weekend hours if needed.