The Colorado Department of Transportation will require a full closure beginning at midnight tonight on U.S. Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton (Mile Points 71 to 92). The highway is expected to reopen to motorists at approximately 8am, Tuesday morning. The overnight closure is necessary to provide ample room for heavy equipment while crews push snow from the highway shoulder and clean ditches.
Tomorrow, Tuesday December 16, between midnight and 8am, motorists will encounter full stops in both directions between Silverton and Ouray. Traffic impacts will include:
Northbound travelers will encounter a closure just north of Silverton (MP 71)
Southbound travelers will encounter a closure just south of Ouray (MP 92)
Do not attempt to bypass the closure gates.
Beginning December 12, additional daytime snow removal and ditch clearing operations will occur on US 550 between Purgatory Ski Area and Silverton, and CO 145 between Telluride and Rico. Motorists can expect up to 15 minute delays and alternating traffic guided by flagging personnel to continue through December 19.
Working hours will be from 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday
Motorists can expect full stops and alternating traffic. Traffic delays up to 15 minutes should be expected
Traffic fines will be doubled in the work zone. Motorists should slow down as they approach the work zones, drive with caution, allow extra space between vehicles, and give themselves extra travel time.