Periodic closures set for U.S. 50 Monarch Pass tomorrow

September 19, 2019 - Southwestern Colorado - Helicopter to facilitate final installation on Friday, September 20, travelers can expect delays September 19, 2019

CHAFFEE COUNTY — On Friday, September 20, the Colorado Department of Transportation will facilitate helicopter operations for the final installation of new avalanche remote control equipment above U.S. Highway 50 Monarch Pass, about 15 miles east of Poncha Springs. The helicopter operations are weather dependent.

TRAVEL IMPACTS 

This one-day operation will require periodic full eastbound and westbound lane closures on U.S. 50 just north of the Monarch Ski Area, between mile points 201 and 202. Delays may last as long as a half hour to an hour. Motorists are urged to allow themselves extra travel time if driving the U.S. 50 route.

After Friday’s helicopter operations are completed, the project will resume its regular work schedule, with minimal impacts to traffic. 

  • Regular work hours are Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. No weekend work is anticipated.

  • Intermittent closures can be expected throughout the project when crews are moving equipment or working slope-side near the highway. Any delays should be for no more than 20 minutes. Otherwise traffic will be let through as normal.

  • Work is expected to end in October 2019, weather dependent.

PROJECT INFORMATION

For additional information about this project: 

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Project Location Map

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