Rockfall Update, Wednesday, January 16, 12:30 p.m.:
US 550 over Red Mountain Pass remains closed due to continuous rockfall at MM 90, 2 miles south of Ouray; there is currently no estimate for a reopening of the pass though updates for travelers will be posted on CDOT’s Traveler Information Site at: www.cotrip.org.
Today, January 16, a helicopter has made two trips this morning, dropping three rockfall crew members from Yenter Companies and two additional spotters from CDOT’s geology department at the highest rockfall site (about 900 feet up). Yenter crews began placing anchors this morning for their ropes and are now bringing rocks down by hand with the use of 5-foot long pry bars. Any rock debris that remains on the roadway will be hauled away when the area is deemed safe for workers. It is too soon to estimate any conclusion of work or a reopen time at this point. Please continue to check www.cotrip.org.
