(Aspen, CO)When Stage 1 of the USA Pro Challenge begins in Aspen next week the resort’s major artery to the airport will be closed for four hours. Highway 82 from Aspen to the Airport will be closed on Monday, August 18th between 1 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. Brush and Owl Creek roads will also be closed from 1-5 p.m., and no vehicles will be allowed in or out of Snowmass Village during this time with the exception of emergency vehicles. Access to or from the airport during the bike race between Aspen and Snowmass Village will require pre-planning. Public transportation will be allowed access to Highway 82 into and out of Aspen during the race but only “as the race allows.” Since bus schedules will be unpredictable, travelers with flights during the highway closure are advised to get to the airport before the highway closes. Please note that during the race, RFTA service will not be available to/from Snowmass Village. Travelers arriving at the airport may wait until the roads reopen or take public transportation to Aspen as busses and vans are allowed through after the racers pass.
“We had a positive experience with the bike race last year and we expect the same this year. Most travelers are aware of the event and have either changed their travel plans or understand they may have to spend a little more time in the terminal than usual,” said Airport Director, Jim Elwood.
Local musicians will entertain travelers all day and the airport café will be offering food and drink specials and United/SkyWest Airlines has announced it will allow passengers booked on race days to change their travel plans without change fees or fare differences.
RFTA busses and hotel limos and vans will operate between the airport and a staging area at Owl Creek Road during the race. After the racers pass public transportation only will be allowed to continue into Aspen. Private vehicles will be turned around by the Colorado State Patrol. There will be no private vehicle access to Aspen during the race.
On Tuesday, August 19th up to 30 minute traffic delays can be expected on Hwy 82 between 10:30 a.m. and noon. Travelers on Tuesday are advised to allow extra time to get to the airport for their flights. For more information go to www.aspenairport.com.
