I-70 Vail Pass reopened on Wednesday evening after being closed in both directions from Vail to Copper Mountain for winter maintenance work. However, it was promptly closed again minutes later due to safety concerns. The eastbound lanes were closed between Exit 173 West Vail and Exit 190 Vail Pass Summit. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) tweeted about the closure, advising motorists to seek the southern alternate route via US 24 and CO 9, but warned that the alternate route was icy and snow-packed.
Oscar Sun, who braved the conditions to enjoy a day on the slopes, got trapped in the I-70 backup when the road was closed. He described the conditions as “really nasty” and urged others to “do your due diligence and stay home.” The closure of Vail Pass was compounded by the closure of Highway 40 over Berthoud Pass due to safety concerns following an avalanche that buried vehicles over the weekend.
CDOT emphasized that the team was working towards safe and swift operations but could not place an exact time on the reopening of I-70.
This incident is part of a series of closures and safety concerns on Colorado highways due to heavy snow and avalanches. It serves as a cautionary tale for drivers to stay informed and cautious when traveling in winter conditions.
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