Rockfall stabilization and retaining wall replacement project completed on US 550 Coal Bank Pass

News Release

Nov. 13, 2025 - Southwestern Colorado - Improvements will help prevent potential of rockfall hazard for motorists
Aerial view of completed slope work on US 550 near Deer Creek (MP 59.3), approximately 11 miles south of Silverton
Aerial view of completed slope work on US 550 near Deer Creek (MP 59.3), approximately 11 miles south of Silverton

Southwest Colorado — The Colorado Department of Transportation and contract partner Myers & Sons Construction have completed work on US Highway 550 between Durango and Silverton.

"The US 550 corridor is a critical route for residents of our mountain towns and visitors to southwest Colorado. The newly completed work will improve the infrastructure beneath the road, as well as enhance safety by stabilizing the slopes and cliffs above the roadway. The improvements will help prevent the potential of rockfall hazard for motorists traveling the highway," said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Julie Constan. "CDOT recognizes that this project has been significantly impactful to our southwest Colorado motorists, especially the residents of Silverton. The contractor and CDOT would like to thank the traveling public for their patience and compliance during this project.”

Work began in mid-May with a retaining wall replacement on Coal Bank Pass (Mile Point 56.9). At this location, the crew performed excavation shoring which helped support and hold the soil in place so the retaining wall structure underneath the highway could be replaced. Retaining wall structures are essential elements of highway design, built under the surface to hold up and support the roadway. A new culvert was also installed under the roadway near the summit of Coal Bank Pass.

Crews also completed rockfall stabilization at the Deer Creek location (MP 59.3). This work included clearing and grubbing, as well as tree and rock removal, and slope excavation. Once slope work was completed, a permanent rockfall catchment barrier was constructed. The system, made of steel posts and fencing, will provide a permanent barrier for rocks and material that may fall from the slope, ultimately protecting passing vehicles.

Additionally, an anchored mesh netting system was installed (MP 57.4) between the Coal Bank Wall site and the Deer Creek location. The netting, secured to the rock face with bolts, will help to stabilize the slope and cliffside along a 750-foot section of the northbound lane. Final work included guardrail installation, milling and paving operations as well as fresh striping.

Completed slope work and rock retaining wall on US 550 at the Deer Creek location (MP 59.3)
Completed slope work and rockfall catchment barrier on US 550 at the Deer Creek location (MP 59.3)

Aerial view of Completed wall replacement at the Coal Bank Pass location (Mile Point 56.9)
Aerial photo of the completed anchored mesh site (MP 57.4) between the Coal Bank Wall site and the Deer Creek Rockfall site
Completed wall replacement at the Coal Bank Pass location (Mile Point 56.9)
Completed wall replacement at the Coal Bank Pass location (MP 56.9)

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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