Starting Monday, June 16, Colorado Highway 145 between Telluride and Ophir will be a bit of a puzzle with scheduled rock clearing operations causing potential delays for motorists. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced that these operations will take place early next week, from June 16 to 18, and the following Monday, June 23, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Drivers should budget extra time for 10 to 15 minute delays due to alternating traffic and full stops, especially near Mile Points 64 to 65.
Maintenance crews will be working diligently to remove debris and fallen rock, ensuring that the drainages along the highway remain clear. This routine maintenance is seasonally necessary to mitigate the possibility of future hazards. All these operations are subject to change, contingent on the cooperation of the weather.
The specifics of the traffic impact include the closure of the northbound lane between the aforementioned mile points, with flaggers and signage directing vehicles through lane shifts and closures. For those plotting their course during these days, it's advised to factor in potential hold-ups. As per CDOT, "Motorists should plan for 10 to 15 minute delays and should allow for extra travel time."
