In certain roadway construction scenarios, a single-lane closure simply won’t provide enough space to complete the work safely. Whether you’re replacing a manhole in the middle of an intersection or trenching across multiple travel lanes, closing two lanes of traffic at once is sometimes necessary to protect workers and the public.
At Ikon Traffic Services, we specialize in traffic control planning and execution for complex right-of-way (ROW) conditions across Denver and the Front Range. Here’s what you need to know about safely and effectively managing multi-lane closures.
Common Two-Lane Closure Scenarios in Denver
1. Closing Two Parking Lanes
If your work zone requires occupying both sides of street parking, the flow of through traffic may remain unaffected. However, a professionally designed Traffic Control Plan (TCP) is still required. Even when traffic isn’t rerouted, municipalities—especially in metro areas like Denver—require an approved TCP to ensure work zone safety and compliance. These types of closures are common in LoDo or the Highlands.
Tip: Always submit your TCP early for City of Denver ROW permitting. Our team can assist with expedited submittals.
2. Closing Two Residential Travel Lanes
Closing both lanes on a residential street presents greater complexity. Because through traffic must be temporarily stopped, flaggers are required to control flow in both directions. This type of setup also demands a higher level of coordination to ensure emergency vehicle access and resident ingress/egress. This type of closure is more common in the residential outskirts of Denver, areas like Aurora or Lakewood.
3. Closing Two Lanes on a Multi-Lane Roadway
On arterials and other high-traffic roads, closing two lanes simultaneously must be done carefully to avoid major congestion and safety issues. For example, if both left lanes in opposite directions need to be closed, it’s typically done in two phases with a buffer zone between closures to alert drivers of the second lane closure in advance. Multi-lane closures in Colorado often occur on CDOT controlled roads, introducing another level of compliance and oversight.
Ikon’s traffic designers ensure all advanced warning signage, taper lengths, and buffer zones meet MUTCD standards and local agency requirements.
4. Closing Lanes in an Intersection
This scenario often involves utility work, such as manhole access or conduit installation, where the work zone lies in the heart of a busy intersection. For safety, multiple lanes must be closed across more than one approach. Ikon’s intersection-specific TCPs account for pedestrian routing, signal timing adjustments, and proper use of certified flaggers or police support, depending on jurisdiction.
Why Denver Traffic Safety Matters: Compliance, Safety, and Scheduling
In Colorado, especially in the Denver metro area, failure to follow proper traffic control procedures can result in fines, project delays, or safety violations. Ikon ensures that your lane closures are:
✅ Fully compliant with Denver ROW regulations and MUTCD
✅ Designed by experienced traffic engineers and planners
✅ Staffed by certified flaggers and lane closure crews
✅ Reviewed and approved before mobilization
✅ Backed by responsive support if conditions change in the field
Let Ikon Traffic Services Handle Your Denver Two-Lane Closures
Whether your job is in a quiet neighborhood or a high-speed corridor, Ikon Traffic Services provides the experience and resources to design and execute safe, approved multi-lane closures across Denver and the Mountain West.
We offer:
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Custom Traffic Control Plans (TCPs)
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Permit submittal and coordination with municipalities
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Certified flagging services
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Emergency and night work support
Need a TCP or Flagger Crew for Your Next Colorado Project?
Ikon Traffic is a trusted partner for contractors, utilities, and telecom providers in need of professional Denver traffic control services. Whether you need a standalone TCP, on-site crew support, or a full traffic management solution—we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today to schedule your traffic plan or crew support.
Ikon Traffic Services
Your partner in safe, compliant, and efficient traffic control across Denver and the Mountain West.