Clearing a path

Long closures for avalanche mitigation could become a thing of that past on Red Mountain Pass. New avi-control technology is being installed on the pass next week (and yes, you can expect traffic delays).

The Colorado Department of Transportation will install remote avalanche control systems at three known avalanche paths: Blue Point/Blue Willow at mile point 81, just south of the pass; and near the Mother Cline  path at mile point 89 (aka the Ruby Wall.)

In all, CDOT monitors 278 of 522 avalanche paths across Colorado. In the past, the usual methods for triggering an avalanche were a 105-millimeter howitzer or helicopter-dropped explosives.

This relatively new technology, however, is remotely controlled, which reduces the amount of time needed to close highways. According to CDOT, the systems work by mixing oxygen and propane or hydrogen gas in exploder nozzles.

“These are the first fixed systems to be installed on Highway 550, and the units are being set at the most ideal locations,” CDOT Southwest Region Transportation Director Julie Constan said in a press release. “The remote-controlled systems will enable more efficient avalanche control, making the areas safer for CDOT crews and travelers.”

CDOT said the Mother Cline and the Blue Point/Blue Willow slides are the most active paths on Highway 550. Blue Point, too, is a popular area for backcountry skiers.

“With these remote systems, we can more effectively bring snow down during peak conditions, often at night,” CDOT Maintenance Area Supervisor Vance Kelso said in a press release. “Then, we can clear the debris before morning and have things opened back up for the traveling public.”

The project begins July 10, and travel impacts are expected mostly within the first two weeks as equipment is brought on site.

Work will be done from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday (some weekend work may be scheduled.) Specific work dates include:

• Tues., July 11:  At MP 81, there will be full traffic holds that could last up to 20 minutes, then traffic queues will be cleared in each direction before the next hold 

• Wed.-Fri., July 12-14:  Periods of single-lane, alternating traffic; and full traffic holds of up to 20 minutes are possible 

• Mon., July 17:  At MP 81, full traffic holds of up to 20 minutes during morning hours; full traffic holds at MP 89 in the afternoon.