Cleanup continues in southwest Colorado after another round of floods. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), some major routes remain impassable.
CDOT said Thursday, Nov. 5, that road and bridge damage has led to full closures on popular routes and that repairs may be delayed. The department urged drivers, including truckers, to prepare for major detours on the way to Pagosa Springs and Durango.
For the second weekend in a row, heavy rain and flooding hit the region. A bridge on US-160 over the Piedra River, near Wolf Creek Pass, failed. CDOT is making temporary repairs where possible, and in some places the road will have to be fully rebuilt. On some stretches, crews also have to clear water and debris again.
The Federal Highway Administration approved $6.5 million in so-called quick-release funds for repairs, and the Colorado Transportation Commission allocated $5 million from its reserve fund.
The flooding also disrupted the start of the ski season. Wolf Creek Ski Area near Pagosa Springs closed Sunday, a day after opening. Business owners from outside Durango sought help with removing damage.
Those affected can turn to several forms of assistance. Homeowners in La Plata County can call the Samaritan’s Purse helpline at (833) 747-1234. People who lost food have 10 days from the loss to apply for reimbursement under the SNAP program. Volunteers can register through Colorado Responds. The Community Emergency Relief Fund is accepting donations in La Plata and Archuleta counties.
Source: 9News
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