Semis Permanently Banned On Cottonwood Pass
Colorado transportation officials have instituted a new rule banning trucks from using Cottonwood Pass without a permit.
Grand Avenue Bridge Closure Causes Major Traffic Headaches
The new truck ban was prompted by the three month closure of the Grand Avenue Bridge for construction. Since the bridge was closed on Monday, five mile traffic backups have been reported in Glenwood Springs on Highway 82.
“If you come up this way in a commercial vehicle, you’re getting a ticket,” according to Garfield County Road and Bridge Director Wyatt Keesbery.
Though the truck ban was made in response to the Grand Avenue Bridge closure, it will remain in effect indefinitely after the bridge is reopened.
The truck ban is in effect on Cottonwood Pass from mile marker 15.5 to mile marker 2.5 near Gypsum.
Special permits needed for big rigs, commercial vehicles using Cottonwood Pass Road. https://t.co/OxYYTIT36J pic.twitter.com/Fx68xIUy0o
— Aspen Times (@TheAspenTimes) August 17, 2017
From now through the end of 2018, the truck ban will be enforced on vehicles vehicles that exceed 8 feet 6 inches in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, and 35 feet in length. As of January 1, 2018, the length restriction will increase to 45 feet.
Truck drivers may obtain a permit to use Cottonwood Pass. You can contact the Eagle County Road & Bridge Department to apply for a permit.
CODOT’s Suggested Detours For Grand Avenue Bridge
Grand Avenue Bridge Detour Routes
- Northbound (Traveling to north or west Glenwood and I-70 access)
Northbound CO 82 will be reduced to one lane at 27th Street. Traffic will be directed to turn left on Eighth Street, right onto Midland Avenue, and continue to the I-70 Exit 114 interchange for access to I-70, and north or west Glenwood residential and commercial areas. - Southbound (Traveling to Glenwood Springs and Roaring Fork Valley)
West Glenwood and I-70 travelers heading to Glenwood Springs or Aspen on CO 82 will be detoured through the I-70 Exit 114 interchange to Midland Avenue, left onto Eighth Street, right onto Colorado Avenue, left onto Ninth Street and right onto Grand Avenue to continue up-valley, or access downtown Glenwood Springs residential and commercial areas.