Starting in November, drivers on I-70 eastbound near Idaho Springs, Colorado, should expect morning closures because of dangerous sun glare. This happens every year from November to February.
What to know: The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) shuts down eastbound I-70 at Floyd Hill from sunrise until 8:30 a.m. on clear mornings. Sun glare at this spot is so strong that it blinds drivers heading up the hill (between mile markers 244 and 248).
- These closures usually last 45 minutes to an hour.
- Traffic is rerouted at Exit 244 (US 6). Drivers can take US 6 through Clear Creek Canyon or use US 40 to rejoin I-70 at Beaver Brook (Exit 248).
- Truckers need to know: Vehicles taller than 12 feet, 7 inches can’t use the US 6 tunnel in the canyon.
- CDOT posts alerts on electronic signs before Floyd Hill so everyone gets a heads up.
These changes are meant to keep people safe during sun glare season, which can cause serious accidents if ignored, according to Colorado DOT.