Construction began Monday to pave the over-one-mile entrance to Roxborough State Park in Douglas County.

The $1.2 million project intends to fix unfavorable road conditions that happen in the winter and during inclement weather, sometimes resulting in vehicles sliding off the road.

“After 33 years of being open to the public, the final 5,672 linear feet of gravel road entering Roxborough State Park will be paved,” Park Manager Colin Chisholm said. “This is a major milestone for the park and something that will contribute to the overall user experience.”

The majority-dirt road is the only way to get from the entrance gate to the parking lots and visitor center.

The project is expected to take two months to complete, with the park hoping to finish before winter weather hits.

During construction, the park will remain open but visitors might experience delays when entering.

Traffic on the entrance road will be limited to one lane alternating directions and controlled by timed traffic lights, Chisholm said, adding “visitors will need to be patient.”

Roxborough State Park is nearly 4,000 acres of red rock formations, plant communities and wildlife ranging from black bears to mule deer.

The park is one of only 12 sites in the country to receive Gold Standard Site designation from The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.