Crashed vehicle recovery operation to Close US 550, north of Purgatory on Thursday

Travel Advisory

April 17, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - Operations are expected to last several hours
A semi truck crash on US 550 at the Cascade Curve approximately two miles north of Purgatory Ski Resort
A semi truck crash occurred early Wednesday morning (April 17) on US 550 at the Cascade Curve, approximately two miles north of Purgatory Ski Resort.

La Plata and San Juan Counties - US Highway 550, approximately two miles north of Purgatory Ski Resort, will be closed Thursday morning, April 18 to allow for the recovery of a crashed semi truck. The road closure and recovery operation are scheduled for 8 a.m. and could last for most of the day. There is no exact time of reopening and commuters who use the corridor should make it to the closure point before the hard closure time of 8 a.m.

Northbound and southbound traffic will be stopped on either side of the crash site (Cascade Curve) located at Mile Point 51, approximately 26 miles north of Durango and 19 miles south of Silverton. Motorists are urged to seek alternate routes and may consider the alternate route of CO 145, through Lizard Head Pass.

“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.”

Early Wednesday morning, April 17, a semi truck crashed through concrete barriers and went off the roadway. The crashed commercial vehicle remained at the site until a tow company and recovery plan could be secured.

Visit COtrip.org for the latest road closure updates.

Highway Closure Map of scheduled closure on April 18 on US 550, north of Purgatory Ski Resort at the Cascade Curve (MP 51), between Durango and Silverton
Highway Closure Map of scheduled closure beginning at 8 a.m. on April 18. The closure point is located on US 550, north of Purgatory Ski Resort at the Cascade Curve (MP 51), between Durango and Silverton. There is no estimated time of reopening.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

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