CO 145 closure scheduled south of Ophir on Thursday

Travel Advisory

March 19, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - Vehicle recovery operations expected to last several hours

San Miguel County — Travelers will encounter significant closures on Colorado Highway 145, between Telluride and Rico on Thursday, March 21 beginning at 10 a.m. Tow truck operators will pull a crashed commercial motor vehicle up to the highway to be towed away near the Ophir curve (Mile Point 63). The extensive closure is required for the safety of the workers and motorists. Both northbound and southbound highway lanes will be needed to maneuver the heavy tow equipment.

Motorists can plan for a full closure to be in place through 4 p.m. on Thursday and are urged to seek alternate routes. Visit COtrip.org for the latest road closure updates.

Travel Alert Map of CO 145 closure between Telluride and Rico from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Mar 21.
Colorado Department of Transportation Travel Alert Map of CO 145 closure between Telluride and Rico from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 21.

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!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!