I-70 ROCKSLIDE UPDATE ―  CDOT opens westbound I-70 following rockslide closure

CLEAR CREEK COUNTY - CDOT has reopened westbound Interstate 70 at Beaver Brook (Exit 248) and US 6 between I-70 and CO 119 following clean-up of this morning’s rockslide. The rockslide occurred at approximately 7 a.m., just west of Fall River Road. It caused the rockslide barrier to shift into the right lane of traffic, which is why the closure was necessary. 

The moisture from the snow storm caused the rock and dirt slope to slide. The rocks fell behind the rockslide barrier, which contained the slide as designed, preventing the rocks from falling into the roadway. The slide pushed the barrier out into one of the lanes with some debris on the roadway, but the large rocks and debris were mostly contained behind the fence. Geotechnical experts with CDOT assessed the slope and determined it is safe for the road to reopen. 

During the rockslide, traffic was turned around at the Beaver Brook Interchange. CDOT appreciates the many motorists who avoided traveling westbound I-70 while the closure was in place so that crews could safely conduct response and debris clean-up. CDOT urges motorists to please continue to drive with caution, and to delay travel until the storm passes if possible.