Partial Opening of Vail Pass Bike Path Today

May 23, 2013 - BIKE ADVISORY - Northwestern Colorado/CDOT Region 3 - EAGLE/SUMMIT COUNTIES — The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is opening the western portion of the Vail Pass Bike Path – between east Vail and the top of Vail Pass – at 2 p.m. today.

Despite late spring snowfall, crews have worked daily to clear the path so it could reopen by Memorial Day. CDOT urges cyclists to ride with caution as the path still has a few icy spots, and more ice may form if the area receives colder temperatures or inclement weather.

The east side of the path, between the top of the pass and Copper Mountain, remains closed and will not open until the remaining snow melts naturally.  CDOT cannot plow the path with machinery since the five timber bridges on this segment are not able to handle heavy snow-clearing equipment.

As a result, beginning in June, construction will begin to repave the path with asphalt and reconstruct all the bridges.  Bicycle travel will be allowed.  However, flaggers will control the two-wheel traffic from sunup to sundown, Monday through Thursday, and from sunup to about 2 p.m. on Fridays.

While this work is taking place, CDOT reminds cyclists and pedestrians to please obey all warning and directional signs.  Cooperation from all users is greatly appreciated.

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