TRAVEL ALERT: CDOT to keep CO 82/Independence Pass open

LAKE/PITKIN COUNTIES –Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) crews had initially targeted today, Monday, Nov. 7 for closing CO 82/Independence Pass. However, due to the mild fall weather, crews will keep the highway open until the first forecasted snow storm for the area.

“We will be monitoring for any potential snow events working with our local Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) forecaster as well as information that we get from the National Weather Service to make a decision on when the pass needs to be closed not only for the safety of our CDOT crews but also the traveling public,” said Tim Holbrook, CDOT Supervisor.

Closure dates for the past five years:

2011 November 2

2012 November 9

2013 November 4

2014 November 12

2015 November 4

NOTE FOR TRAVELERS: The pass typically remains open until November 7 each year, depending upon weather, and is open on the Thursday prior to Memorial Day weekend, always weather permitting.

Independence Pass was carved out of the land by glaciers and the erosive action of the Roaring Fork River over thousands of years. It is the site of the first road in the Roaring Fork Valley, which was pioneered over Hunter Pass, the original name of Independence Pass, in 1881. An old stage road still remains visible from several locations. The road was built in its current location in 1927 and was paved in 1967.

ALTERNATE ROUTE: The alternate route to Aspen during the months the pass is closed is I-70 to Glenwood Springs, and CO 82 into Aspen.

TRAVELER ALERTS: Motorists are encouraged to check for updates on the status of Independence Pass at our traveler information website, www.cotrip.org by calling 511 from anywhere in the state. Updates are also available via Twitter @coloradodot and be sure to “Like” us on Facebook.