Access to Lake Pueblo from Pueblo West to be closed April 2

3/25/2024

To improve access to Lake Pueblo State Park from the north through Pueblo West, a new pedestrian bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks will be installed on April 2 requiring closure of that park entrance for the day.

The closure could extend to April 3 depending on weather conditions and other circumstances.

No vehicle travel will be permitted in either direction that April 2 on South Nichols Road to allow construction crews to stage two cranes on the road. The cranes will lift the new pedestrian bridge and swing it into place, spanning the tracks, which run east and west through a deep ravine.

The pedestrian bridge will sit on new concrete abutments built on either side of the ravine and connect a recently constructed sidewalk.

The April 2 closure is expected to last from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.

"That north entrance is popular among Pueblo West residents," said Park Manager Joe Stadterman. ""We're excited to install this pedestrian bridge and provide a safe new access over the train tracks and separated from vehicle traffic."

Stadterman asked for patience and understanding from residents who use the road to access the park and even to reach Pueblo.

"We regret the inconvenience this closure will cause," he said. "But there is a lot of interest among trail users to finish this section. When this project is finished, trail uses will be able to travel from Pueblo West all the way into downtown Pueblo."

Photo courtesy of Colorado Parks and Wildlife / Joe Stadterman