Rock-Scaling Operation set for US 550 North of Durango

Starting Monday, Aug. 21, crews will begin rockfall mitigation operations to remove loose rock on this slope of US 550 between Durango and Silverton. A large loose boulder (as well as other smaller loose rocks and debris) can be seen in this photo.

SOUTHWEST COLORADO—Starting Monday, Aug. 21, CDOT will be performing week-long rock scaling on US 550 between Durango and Silverton, near the Deer Creek area.

Rock scaling is the removal of loose rock from slopes. CDOT engineering and maintenance crews are persistent to identify areas along Southwest Colorado roadways that may be prone to rock falls. Any loose surface material on a cliff or slope could present a rockfall hazard for motorists on the highway.

Highway Travel Impacts

Beginning Monday, Aug. 21, motorists will encounter up to 20-minute delays on US 550, approximately 35 miles north of Durango at mile point (MP) 59. The traffic stops will allow crews to perform hillside-scaling operations and remove any rock or debris from the roadway. The rock-scaling operations are expected to be completed by Friday, Aug. 25.

Travelers are also advised and reminded that an additional construction work zone is in place on US 550 Molas Pass, about 10 miles further along the highway at MP 68, two miles south of Silverton. Motorists will encounter up to 20-minute delays through this construction zone as well. Work crews at this site are constructing new crib walls (or retaining walls), which support the roadway on this high mountain pass.