Cracked bridge shut down on US 50 over Blue Mesa Reservoir

DENVER (KDVR) — A bridge along U.S. 50 that crosses Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest Colorado was closed on Thursday because of cracking, and drivers will be subject to a lengthy detour to get around it.

The bridge is west of Gunnison near Dillon Pinnacles. State inspectors found a defect at mile point 136.3, and a second inspection on Thursday “identified anomalies in the bridge,” according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.

“This inspection was required because of known issues with similarly constructed bridges elsewhere in the country,” CDOT said in a release. The Federal Highway Administration made the requirement.

The closure is in place on U.S. 50 from the intersection with Colorado Highway 92 at mile point 131 to mile point 138. Locals will be allowed through to reach their homes, but other drivers should plan an alternate route — which will come with a detour that adds hours of travel time.

US 50 detour route between Montrose and Gunnison

The recommended detour is on Interstate 70 to the north or U.S. 160 to the south. The northern route is 354 miles and adds around six hours of travel time, while the southern route is 331 miles and adds around seven hours of travel time, CDOT said.

“CDOT and local partners are exploring whether it is feasible at this point in the season to clear local seasonal routes that may be able to significantly reduce the detour time for local travelers,” the release said.

Travelers are urged to check COtrip.org for the latest road conditions.

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