US 550 Retaining Wall & Tunnel Repairs

Travel Advisory | New Traffic Impacts Beginning Aug. 24, 2026 until Mid September
At both the embankment stabilization and retaining wall work locations, motorists will encounter 24/7, single-lane, alternating traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals. Expect up to 15 minute delays at each work zone. Motorists should give themselves an extra 30 minutes of travel time between Ouray and SIlverton.

About the Project

Additional New Work Zone 

Please be advised that an additional embankment stabilization project is scheduled to begin this Monday (8/24) at Mile Point 90 on US 550, located three miles south of Ouray. This work zone will be in place for approximately three weeks until mid-September.

The work is needed due to the July 29 rain event that significantly eroded the shoulder of the roadway. This repair will stabilize the embankment and rebuild a small portion of the highway shoulder. To minimize public traffic impacts, this schedule has been coordinated with the existing tunnel and retaining wall project.

Tunnel and Retaining Wall Project

The work at Bear Creek Tunnel, MP 90.84, is complete. Work continues at the retaining wall, MP 88.6. The new retaining wall is expected to be completed in October.

This project will take place just south of Ouray in Ouray County on US Highway 550.

The work includes:

  • Drilling stabilization anchors
  • Upgrading the face of the retaining wall (Mile Point 88.6)
  • Cleaning drainages
  • Repairing cracks
  • Repairing the tunnel liner in the Bear Creek Tunnel (MP 90.84)

The project will begin the week of July 20, 2026, and work is expected to be completed by late September.

Work this Week & Lane Closures for US 550 Retaining Wall & Tunnel Repairs

Project Facts

  • Construction Cost: $1.9 million
  • Contractor: Rock & Co
  • Timeline: July 2026 to October 2026
  • Location: US 550 
    • Nearest Town/City: Ouray
    • Mile Point(s): MP 88.6
    • County: Ouray
Map of US 550 Retaining Wall and Tunnel Repairs project locations south of Ouray.
Map of US 550 Retaining Wall and Tunnel Repairs project locations south of Ouray. One site indicates retaining wall repairs at mile point 88.68. A second work site indicates Bear Creek Tunnel repairs at mile point 90.84.

Project Benefits

Repair and maintenance of this retaining wall and tunnel will provide the following benefits:

  • Protect this busy travel corridor
  • Prolong the life and integrity of the existing structures
  • Prevent dangerous driving conditions
  • Reduce highway maintenance costs

Work Schedule

Normal working hours will be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and weekend work is possible.

Traffic, Trail & Backcountry Impacts

With heightened fire activity occurring in the area, the project team is well prepared to adjust road construction to accommodate emergency traffic and evacuation routes. Other impacts include:

  • Motorists will encounter 24/7, single-lane, alternating traffic guided by temporary traffic signals at the retaining wall
  • Motorists should plan for 15 to 20 minute delays
  • Full nighttime closures may occur intermittently during the week from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
  • An 11-foot width restriction will be in place (tunnel clearance is 13 ft. 9 in.)
  • Access to trailheads and scenic overlooks will remain open
  • Backcountry 4x4 travelers driving on the Alpine Loop from Lake City to Ouray should be aware of the US 550 traffic impacts and delays
  • Refer to COtrip.org for real-time travel conditions and road closures