Phantom Canyon Road reopens after months of flood repairs

A vital link between Caon City and Victor that was severed by flooding over the summer has been restored.

Large chunks of the stretch of Highway 67 known as Phantom Canyon Road were washed away by raging waters in May.

“There were at least four or five significant washouts, but a total of 18 different washouts where repairs were needed,” said Ed Norden, Fremont County commissioner.

On Tuesday, the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office reopened the road to all traffic. Before, drivers had to take alternate routes.

“It was a huge bummer I’m a waitress so a lot of time I tell customers to use that road so they can get to Cripple Creek,” said Alyssa Roy.

Crews say it took a total of six weeks to make the repairs but initially couldn’t get to the road right away because of severe conditions.

Norden says crews worked hard to get the road back open. He is glad they were able to make repairs before the summer tourist season but he knows flooding can happen again.

“When you look at the kind of flooding that took place last May in a narrow canyon that’s existed for hundreds of thousands of years, you’re left with only one result and if we have that flooding again, it’s bound to happen again,” said Norden.

While there’s not much crews can do to prevent flooding, Norden says they can ensure safety by closing the road. Now that it’s reopen he says drivers will notice the difference.

“That lower end of Phantom Canyon is in as good shape as it’s been in years,” said Norden.

Crews haven’t finalized exact costs of repairs, but original estimates were $600,000 in repairs.

We’ll have the full story tonight on KRDO Newschannel 13 at ten.