Drivers on eastbound Interstate 70 near Floyd Hill should expect periodic morning closures due to sun glare from early November through February. The closures, which will occur between Mile Points 244 and 248, are scheduled from sunrise until 8:30 a.m. and may cause delays of up to an hour. The first preparatory closure is set for 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29, with the official closure period beginning Nov. 1.
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), these closures are coordinated daily with the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and are intended to protect motorists from hazardous driving conditions caused by intense sun glare. “The sun glare closures at Floyd Hill are implemented for the safety of the traveling public. The decision to close the highway is made daily, on a case-by-case basis, through collaboration between Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and CDOT personnel stationed near Floyd Hill.”
Officials note that the combination of a low eastward sun angle, leftover moisture on roadways, steep terrain, sharp turns, and potential wildlife crossings can make this stretch particularly dangerous during certain mornings in fall and winter. “Leftover moisture on the roadway from storms or pre-treatment materials can significantly magnify the glare,” according to CDOT. Other contributing factors include “challenging terrain like steep hills and sharp turns” and “unforeseen obstacles, such as the potential for wildlife crossing the highway.” CDOT describes these measures as “a necessary, unified effort between CSP and CDOT to keep motorists as safe as possible.”
During a sun glare closure, eastbound traffic will be diverted at Exit 244 (US 6). Drivers may continue on US 6 through Clear Creek Canyon or use US 40 to rejoin I-70 at Beaver Brook (Exit 248). Truck drivers should be aware that vehicles taller than 12 feet, seven inches cannot use US 6 due to tunnel height restrictions in Clear Creek Canyon.
Closures typically last between 45 and 60 minutes and may occur any morning from November through February when conditions warrant. Drivers are encouraged to monitor overhead message boards starting just east of the Eisenhower Johnson Memorial Tunnel for real-time updates or check travel alerts at COtrip.org.
