Heavy snowfall buildup on Colorado’s Western Slope led to excessive runoff in spring 2023. In early May, this flooding led to the washout of a section of Colorado State Highway 133 (SH 133) between the small towns of Paonia and Somerset. The resulting crevasse, more than 20 feet across, caused an immediate closure of the route to most traffic.

SH 133 is an important route in the sparsely populated area. The region’s economy is transportation-dependent, consisting primarily of agriculture, mining and ranching. In addition, there is a significant tourism sector due to the area’s many wineries, restaurants, shops and outdoor recreation opportunities. Although first responders, local residents, and those making necessary deliveries were allowed to pass around the damage, the only available route for most travelers was a detour of some 200 miles (320 km), creating an urgent need to reopen the highway.

One of Acrow’s modular steel panel bridges, was selected to restore the passage until repairs could be completed and was provided to project contractor Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction. The heavy-duty structure has a length of 103.35 feet (31.5m) and a curb-to-curb width of 30 feet (9.15m) to enable two-way traffic. It was assembled and installed in just two weeks and opened to traffic on June 19, 10 days ahead of the contractual deadline. The rented bridge will remain in place until the end of the project in late 2023.

Acrow’s modular bridges are available for rent or purchase to help expedite the reconnection of critical routes. Easily transported and in stock for immediate delivery to the most difficult locations, Acrow’s components provide an economical and reliable solution to rapidly restore damaged infrastructure in the wake of emergencies.

(Image courtesy of Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction)