U.S. Highway 550 to close following semi-truck crash
LA PLATA AND SAN JUAN COUNTIES, Colo. (KREX) — U.S. Highway 550 will close Thursday morning to allow Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) officials to recover a crashed semi-truck.
Early Wednesday morning, a semi-truck crashed through the concrete barriers at Mile Point 51, approximately two miles north of Purgatory Ski Resort, and went off the road. The vehicle remained at the site until a tow company and recovery plan could be secured.
The road closure and recovery operation are scheduled to start at 8 a.m. and could last most of the day; commuters should be at the closure point before that time. Officials say there is no estimated time for reopening.
“We are hoping for a swift vehicle recovery, however, opening times can’t be determined until work is underway and the vehicle is on the pavement,” said CDOT Maintenance Supervisor Vance Kelso. “In the meantime, we are encouraging travelers to plan ahead and find alternate routes between Durango and Silverton tomorrow.”
Northbound and southbound traffic will be stopped on either side of where the crash occurred. Officials urge motorists to seek alternate routes, suggesting State Highway 145 through Lizard Head Pass.
Visit the CDOT trip planner website for the latest road closure updates.
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