The Colorado Department of Transportation is warning drivers to expect heavy delays along the Interstate 70 mountain corridor early next week as the department works to complete paving projects in the area.

CDOT crews are working to get as much paving done as possible on the westbound I-70 mountain express lane project before winter conditions prohibit anymore progress. Drivers heading west through the area should expect delays of up to two hours during peak travel times.

Paving work only can be done during daytime hours when temperatures are warm enough, according to CDOT, though closures will continue through the night to get other work done.

The department will be closing one lane on westbound I-70 in the Idaho Springs area from 3 p.m. into the night Sunday, Dec. 20, and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. Schedules are subject to change depending on weather.

The department is urging motorists who are planning to travel west through the corridor to leave early. There are no planned lane closures during the Christmas holiday from Dec. 23-28.

CDOT crews will resume work on the project in the spring in hopes of having the new express lane open as early as possible next year.