Avalanche control systems installed at Red Mountain Pass

Our specially trained avalanche crews have tested the five new units and we are ready for winter. These snow slide paths on Red dMountain are known as frequent offenders. CDOT crews shoot these down many times throughout the winter season. Now with these units permanently installed and pre-loaded on the mountain and ridgelines, operations can take place in the early morning hours before daytime commuter traffic increases, lessening the closure impacts for motorists.

Brian Gorsage, CDOT state avalanche program coordinator

We look forward to these systems helping our maintenance crews keep Red Mountain Pass passable for local residents and visitors. This advanced technology also means safer operations for our personnel, more efficient missions and reduced durations of roadway closures.

Julia Constan, CDOT Southwest Regional Transportation Director

CDOT engineers typically work on projects like road paving, bridge building and culvert replacement. This project took place in a high alpine environment requiring all the construction equipment and supplies to be delivered and installed by helicopter and rope access technicians. It was quite a challenge for our construction team.

Jeff Reichel, CDOT Engineer / Project Manager

CAIC and CDOT work together to monitor and plan mitigation missions that ultimately prevent hazardous natural avalanches from impacting public travel. CAIC is staffed with forecastors across the state. These forecasters assess the avalanche conditions and assist CDOT crews with determining when avalanche control operations are required to keep mountain roads safe for residents and other travelers.

Ethan Greene, CAIC Director