County Road 524 Closes Indefinitely Starting January 16 Due to Failing Culvert Near Bayfield

LA PLATA COUNTY – La Plata County Road 524, a vital connector between County Roads 521 and 523 south and east of Bayfield in the scenic Pine River Valley, will be closed indefinitely starting Friday, January 16, at 10 a.m. The closure is a direct result of a failing culvert that has raised significant safety concerns for local commuters.

The La Plata County Road & Bridge Department has announced that the culvert replacement will proceed once necessary materials arrive. While a specific reopening date cannot be provided at this time, the department anticipates the closure will extend at least through the end of February.

During this period, non-local traffic will need to utilize alternate routes. County Roads 521, 522, and 523—longstanding paths through La Plata County's rural countryside—have been designated as detours to help manage traffic flow around the affected area. Residents who regularly use County Road 524 for their daily commutes between County Roads 521 and 523 should plan for extended travel times and adjust their routes accordingly.

The Road & Bridge Department urges all drivers to exercise caution when navigating the alternate routes and to be aware of any signage indicating road work or detours. Further updates on the culvert replacement and road reopening will be provided as materials are secured and work progresses.