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FOX31 Denver
Blue Mesa bridge on US 50 set to partially reopen in July
By Lanie Lee Cook,
2024-05-22
DENVER (KDVR) — The U.S. 50 bridge over Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest Colorado is set to reopen July 4 to limited traffic, transportation officials said Tuesday.
The bridge has been closed since April 18 after inspectors found cracks in the steel. Closer examination revealed 118 “critical” locations with defects.
CPR News first reported the update from a meeting Tuesday night in Gunnison County. State transportation officials confirmed the news to FOX31 and laid out the repair plan.
“The first phase of the repair plan is for crews to repair four locations on the bridge in time for limited traffic to be able to use the bridge starting July 4, weather permitting and with all factors going smoothly,” Elise Thatcher, spokesperson for the Colorado Department of Transportation, said in an email. “The exact amount of traffic will be determined as repairs progress, and weather will play a significant role in being able to complete the first phase of repairs on this timeline.”
A second phase for repairs will take longer and will be performed “in between in-service traffic openings on the bridge,” according to CDOT. Full loads are expected to be allowed back on the bridge in fall 2024.
“This Executive Order allocates funding to assist in the response and recovery efforts related to the U.S. Highway 50 Blue Mesa Middle Bridge closure,” the governor’s office said in a release. “The Blue Mesa Bridge is a critical access point for emergency services, agriculture, education, and community members’ daily travel throughout the region.”
Inspectors continue conducting work on the US 50 middle bridge over Blue Mesa Reservoir. (Courtesy the Colorado Department of Transportation)
US 50 Blue Mesa bridge closure detours
The bridge, built in 1963, is west of Gunnison near Dillon Pinnacles. The closure is in place on U.S. 50 from mile points 136 to 137.8 at Red Creek Road.
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