Statewide ~ Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) crews worked tirelessly to complete a rapid reconstruction of a temporary one-lane bridge on CO 165 south of Beulah. The bridge was destroyed in the Aspen Acres fire, which has been raging through the area.

The bridge, located at milepost 16.5 on CO 165, is an important access point for emergency services and serves as a southbound evacuation route for residents. Despite the total loss of the structure, CDOT crews were able to perform an emergency repair overnight, opening one lane for emergency traffic.

This temporary repair will allow for alternating traffic and emergency vehicles as needed, ensuring that access is restored and traffic chokepoints are avoided while CDOT plans a permanent solution.

Governor Polis praised the efforts of CDOT and other frontline workers in their swift response to the disaster. "From Colorado's frontline firefighters, local law enforcement, and our state workers, including the hard-working women and men of CDOT, Colorado has no shortage of bravery and can-do when times call for it," he said.

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The reconstruction project began at approximately 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30th. Crews worked through the night to place corrugated pipes to allow the gulch to flow and fill the space between and above the pipes to reach the grade of the roadway. The project was completed at 1:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1st, reopening a vital artery for local residents and emergency personnel.

CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew expressed her pride in her team's dedication during this challenging time. "Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the devastating Aspen Acres Fire," she said. "We are so proud of our dedicated teams that stepped up when the community needed it most."

As fire season continues in Colorado, CDOT is closely monitoring active wildfires across the state that may cause sudden highway closures. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, know their routes, and identify potential alternatives before heading out. Real-time updates on road conditions, active incidents, and fire-related detours can be found on COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner app.

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Motorists are advised to watch for overhead electronic message signs for immediate safety alerts and changing instructions while driving. They should also be prepared for low visibility near active fires and follow local sheriff offices and fire districts for official emergency updates.

In addition to providing updates on road conditions, CDOT is also sharing wildfire prevention and smoke safety tips with drivers. These include never tossing cigarettes out the window, securing trailer chains to prevent sparks, and avoiding overheating brakes on steep descents. Drivers are also advised to use low-beam headlights in areas with wildfire smoke to improve visibility.

CDOT has made photo and video footage of the reconstruction project available for editorial use. They have also shared a Facebook post and Instagram reel for easy sharing. However, they remind viewers that the footage was taken in a controlled environment by CDOT staff.

As Colorado continues to battle wildfires, CDOT urges drivers to stay informed and take necessary precautions while traveling through affected areas. By working together, we can help keep our communities safe during this challenging time.

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