Rockfall mitigation work at McKenzie Junction

Travel Advisory

May 7, 2025 - Southeastern Colorado - Intermittent closures of CO 96 and CO 165 on May 28 and 29

Custer County — On Wednesday, May 28 and Thursday, May 29 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Colorado Department of Transportation will perform rockfall mitigation and scaling at the intersection of CO Highway 96 and CO 165 (McKenzie Junction).

Both CO 96 and CO 165 will be closed at McKenzie Junction as crew members work to scale loose rock from the canyon wall on the north side of CO 96. Both roadways will open to traffic intermittently.

Traffic Impacts

On May 28 and May 29, motorists will encounter road work on CO 96 and CO 165 at McKenzie Junction in Custer County:

  • Working hours will be from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday
  • Roads will be opened to traffic intermittently
  • Alternate routes are suggested
Map of CO Highway 96 and CO Highway 165 at McKenzie Junction in Custer County where crews will perform rock fall mitigation work.
Map of CO Highway 96 and CO Highway 165 at McKenzie Junction in Custer County where crews will perform rockfall mitigation work.

    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!