The threat of snow and severe weather conditions has forced the Colorado Department of Transportation to temporarily close Independence Pass.
Prior to closure at 1 p.m., CDOT swept the 18 mile stretch of road east of Aspen and west of Twin Lakes to ensure no motorists or cyclists were present. The temporary closure could become permanent if the road conditions do not improve before the season’s regularly scheduled closure, set for Nov. 7 at 2 p.m.
Each year around the first week in November, the pass is closed for safety reasons and is reopened Memorial Day weekend in May, weather permitting. CDOT will be monitoring the weather forecasts closely this week as another storm system is expected to blow through on Friday.
Last year, the pass closed for the season on Oct. 25.
Kristen Leigh Painter: 303-954-1638 or kpainter@denverpost.com
