CDOT Warns: Traffic Signals could be Affected by Valley Wide Power Outage

March 12, 2019 - Southwestern/South Central Colorado - Use caution when approaching intersections

The Colorado Department of Transportation urges motorists to be aware of potential traffic light signal interruptions due to the power outage impacting several communities across the San Luis Valley in south-central Colorado. Communities along the routes of US Highways 160 and 285 currently affected by the outage are Alamosa, Monte Vista, Del Norte and other outlying towns in the valley.

Traffic light signals at intersections along the routes of US 160 and 285 are currently functioning with backup power sources. This backup system has the capability to feed power to the light signal for several hours. As a precaution, CDOT is in the process of obtaining generators to place at critical locations that could be impacted should the backup power fail.

Additionally, electronic signs have currently lost power due to the power outage. These electronic signs typically warn motorists of road impacts or closures on the highway. The traveling public should seek information from CDOT’s travel and road condition website COtrip.org.    

WHAT TO DO IF A SIGNAL IS NOT FUNCTIONING:

Should motorists come upon a light signal that is not functioning, flashing or black, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.

STAY INFORMED: