In a recent development, a bridge along U.S. 50 that crosses the Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest Colorado has been closed due to cracking in a specific type of steel. The closure, which took effect on Thursday, has resulted in a lengthy detour for drivers in the area.

Built in 1963, the bridge is located west of Gunnison near Dillon Pinnacles. During a routine inspection, state officials discovered a defect at mile point 136.3. A subsequent inspection on Thursday revealed additional anomalies in the bridge's structure, with a crack identified in the steel grinder situated midway through the bridge.

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), this inspection was undertaken due to known issues encountered with similarly constructed bridges elsewhere in the country. The requirement for the inspection was made by the Federal Highway Administration.

CDOT has determined that the issue lies with the T1 Steel used in the construction of the bridge. It is worth noting that only two bridges in Colorado utilize this type of steel, and the other bridge is also located on the Blue Mesa Reservoir. Authorities do not anticipate this issue to affect any other bridges in the state.

The closure spans a section of U.S. 50, from the intersection with Colorado Highway 92 at mile point 131 to mile point 138. Motorists are advised to plan an alternate route as the current detour adds several hours of travel time.

As of now, there is no estimate regarding the duration of the closure or whether the bridge will require repairs or a complete rebuild.

CDOT has recommended two detour routes for drivers traveling between Montrose and Gunnison. The northern route involves using Interstate 70, which adds approximately six hours of travel time over a distance of 354 miles. The southern route, covering 331 miles, utilizes U.S. 160 and adds around seven hours of travel time.

The possibility of clearing local seasonal routes to reduce detour time is being explored by CDOT and its local partners. However, no seasonal routes are currently open, and several posts on social media suggesting alternative routes have been deemed unsafe for travel.

It is important to note that County Road 26 is closed and cannot be used as a detour option.

While the closure has affected vehicular traffic, recreation on the Blue Mesa Reservoir under the bridge remains unaffected. Boaters can still access the reservoir without any hindrance.

Travelers are advised to stay updated on road conditions by visiting COtrip.org, the official website for Colorado road conditions.

As authorities work to assess alternate roads and ensure their safety for drivers, the focus remains on resolving the issue with the Blue Mesa Reservoir bridge. Updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.