Surface treatment to take place on US 550 Red Mountain Pass beginning June 5

Travel Advisory

June 1, 2023 - Southwest Colorado - Motorists traveling over Red Mountain Pass can expect flaggers and one-lane alternating traffic

Southwest Colorado— On June 5, the Colorado Department of Transportation will begin week-long chip sealing operations along a 5-mile stretch of US 550 between Ouray and Silverton. Motorists traveling over Red Mountain Pass, Mile points 76 through 81, can expect flaggers and one-lane alternating traffic.

CDOT crews will work as swiftly as possible to complete the surface treatment however resurfacing operations are weather dependent.

US 550 chip sealing graphic
Motorists will encounter flaggers and one-lane alternating traffic June 5 - 9 while CDOT performs maintenance operations on US 550 Red Mountain Pass between Ouray and Silverton.

Traffic Impacts

Daytime work hours range from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Travelers driving through surface treatment projects are urged to:

  • Slow down ― Higher speeds can cause loose stones to scatter and damage vehicle paint and windshields.
  • Increase distance between vehicles ― Space between you and other vehicles will help reduce damage caused by loose stones.
  • Follow work zone signage and flagging personnel ― Consider the safety of other motorists and the safety of the work crew when traveling through the project construction zone.
  • Use caution ― Bicyclists and motorcyclists should use extreme caution during construction operations.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

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