Highway 96, a critical artery east of Westcliffe, was shut down in both directions following a rock slide on Sunday. Details provided by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) indicated that the slide occurred near the Greenhorn Highway junction, prompting a closure there as well. As reported by KKTV, the rockfall has made travel through this part of Custer County impossible for the time being.
In the wake of the incident, the Custer County Sheriff's Office expressed concerns over the potential for additional rockfall in the already affected area. An announcement on social media, which Denver 7 shared, warned locals that the blockade might extend for "multiple days." This timeframe allows for a thorough inspection to ensure the safety and integrity of the highways before reopening. Consequently, the disruption is expected to impact daily commutes and regional travel plans.
Alternative routes have been shared by the Custer County Sheriff's Office to assist travelers during the closure. According to FOX21, drivers can take Highway 165 from Rye to San Isabel to Mackenzie Junction, navigate over Oak Creek Grade (CR255) or Copper Gulch (CR 215) from Cañon City to Westcliffe, or lastly use Highway 69 from Texas Creek to Westcliffe. These detours offer viable alternatives, though they may add extra time to journeys around the region.
After initial assessments by CDOT, the agency determined that the engagement of a geologist was necessary to thoroughly assess the situation before clean-up efforts could begin. "Specialized rockfall mitigation" measures may also be required, augmenting the complexity and duration of the rehabilitation process, and as such, CDOT will update the community via electronic sign message boards strategically placed in Silver Cliff, Wetmore, and Rye.
