New Closure Procedure For Ute Pass
The Colorado Department of Transportation has updated its protocol regarding flooding on Ute Pass.
Previously whenever a flash flood warning was issued or when rainfall and ground saturation conditions warranted, U.S. 24, west of Colorado Springs was closed to all traffic. ?
With the new protocol, will dispatch crews to three locations along the corridor – at Cave of the Winds Road – Cascade, and in the Green Mountain Falls area.?
Crews will remain in place and if flooding or debris flows begin to impact the highway, it will immediately be closed to all traffic.
“We understood the pre-emptive closures were creating a hardship for residents and businesses alike to the west of Colorado Springs, so we reviewed how best to still keep traffic moving without compromising public safety,” said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Karen Rowe. “We believe this new protocol is the best option for everybody who travels Highway 24.”
When a storm does hit the area, a plow truck will also travel up and down the corridor, monitoring conditions to ensure water and debris flow is staying off the roads.
If the highway needs to be closed, CDOT and the Colorado State Patrol will then sweep the corridor to ensure there are no individuals and/or vehicles remaining in the closure area.
Before the highway is reopened to traffic, CDOT will assess the condition of the roadway, making sure any storm-related debris has been removed and the highway is safe for travel.
This protocol continues throughSept. 30, 2015.
