UPDATE: The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has just announced the closure of Colorado Highway 3 in Durango for urgent rockfall mitigation work. Starting Monday, crews will work for two weeks to repair a damaged retaining fence and mitigate risks from falling rocks, ensuring the safety of motorists.
The closure is essential due to a recent rockfall that struck the retaining fence, which is designed to catch falling debris from the sandstone cliffs above the highway. CDOT geohazards geologist Regan French described the situation as a “Christmas gift” when she was alerted to the damage just before New Year’s. “It took some damage, but it still performed as designed,” French stated, highlighting the need for immediate repairs.
Workers from Apex Rockfall Mitigation LLC began the first phase of the project by removing loose rocks from the cliffs, which poses a significant risk to both workers and drivers. “We’re keeping the road shut for the entirety of this,” French emphasized, as safety is the top priority during this critical operation.
The mitigation process involves complex procedures, including drilling new anchors for the support posts that will reinforce the retaining fence. The team is utilizing a combination of hands-on techniques and machinery to ensure efficient and safe removal of hazardous materials. “The next phase involves simultaneously drilling rock anchors and downsizing the rock with an excavator,” French explained.
CDOT spokeswoman Lisa Schwantes confirmed that while the highway is closed, crews are also performing maintenance work, such as sealing cracks in the road surface, making the most of the downtime. This proactive approach underscores CDOT’s commitment to maintaining safe travel conditions for residents and visitors alike.
As the project progresses, French noted that Colorado faces significant challenges with rockfall mitigation due to its mountainous terrain. “Colorado has got to be one of the No. 1 states that has to deal with rockfall mitigation,” she said, emphasizing the necessity of ongoing efforts to catalog and manage slopes statewide.
The highway closure is set to last until March 20, with updates expected as the project progresses. CDOT is urging all motorists to avoid the area and seek alternate routes during this critical repair period.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through CDOT’s official channels for the latest updates on road conditions and project timelines. This situation is evolving rapidly, and ensuring safety is paramount as crews work diligently to mitigate the risks posed by rockfalls along Highway 3.
