Construction in Pagosa

Question

Hello TA! Does anyone know when the expected completion time is for the major construction to be finished in the area near the springs? I’m planning a visit in early November and hoping it will be done. It wasn’t a lot of fun when I was there last trying to navigate how to get places I wanted to go - mostly because I couldn’t walk a lot due to an injury I’m still recovering from. Any info is greatly appreciated!

Answer

Good question — it’s very understandable to worry about construction, especially when mobility is limited. Here’s the current status of the major downtown roadwork in Pagosa Springs and what to expect when you visit in early November.

What Construction Is Going On?

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is carrying out a major reconstruction of US-160 through downtown Pagosa Springs, specifically between North 8th Street and North 1st Street.
The work includes replacing the asphalt road surface with concrete, upgrading utilities (water, sewer, gas, electric), installing pedestrian crosswalks with flashing signs, and improving ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps.
The town itself is also investing in “downtown revitalization” alongside this CDOT project, with funding going toward sidewalk improvements, lighting, street-furniture, and more pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Additional road maintenance is planned for nearby streets too (chip seal and paving), per town public works plans.

Timeline & Expected Completion

Construction began in spring 2025 (CDOT officially started around March).
The project is expected to run through 2025 and 2026, with anticipated completion in fall 2026.
Because your visit in early November 2025 falls well within the construction window, work will still be ongoing.

Implications for Your Visit (Especially With Limited Mobility)

You should absolutely plan for traffic delays downtown. CDOT notes that two-way traffic will be maintained, but with lane shifts and occasional closures.
Parking downtown along US 160 will be restricted in the construction zone.
Pedestrian access: While sidewalks are being rebuilt, there may be gaps or alternate walking paths; the project includes improved ADA ramps, which is a plus.
Be extra cautious as a pedestrian: CDOT advises visitors to watch for changing walkways, construction vehicles, and work-zone signage.
On the plus side — once complete, the area will have a safer, more permanent road surface, better crosswalks, and improved sidewalks, which will make navigating downtown easier in the long run.

My Recommendation for Early November:

- Expect some disruption, especially when driving through downtown. - Consider walking cautiously but bring mobility support (cane, walker, or just allow more time) because sidewalks may be partially disassembled or redirected. - Use alternative streets or entrances into town when possible to avoid the worst of the construction zone. - Check the project website (CDOT’s US 160 Pagosa reconstruction) before your trip for real-time updates on lane closures or work schedules. - When planning which parts of town to visit (shops, springs, restaurants), factor in that access might be a little more limited or slower than in non-construction times.

Bottom line: Unfortunately, the construction won’t be finished by November 2025, so you will likely experience some inconvenience. But local authorities have planned for two-way traffic and pedestrian access, and downtown businesses remain open and welcoming. With a little extra planning, you should still be able to enjoy Pagosa Springs meaningfully.