TxDOT expects to reopen U.S. 180 West in about two weeks
U.S. Highway 180 West, just past the Breckenridge city limits, should be reopened to through traffic in about two weeks, weather permitting, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
A 1.6-mile portion of the highway was closed on Feb. 5 after a sinkhole developed in the roadway over a culvert. The original problem started on Feb. 3, and the road was partially blocked at that time.
However, the necessary extensive repairs required total closure of that stretch of highway.
According to TxDOT, the two galvanized metal arch pipe culverts under the highway were originally scheduled for replacement in the fall of 2019. However, heavy rains experienced throughout the fall and winter led to the current situation, and an emergency closure and repair were necessary.
After inspecting the area, TxDOT engineers and designers decided to utilize construction techniques that would help accelerate the repair in order to reopen the roadway as quickly as possible, according to a TxDOT news release.
Currently, eastbound through traffic is detoured south at FM 2231, which also continues east, and then onto FM 3099 which leads north, into Breckenridge. Westbound traffic detours south at U.S. 183 or at FM 3099, then connects with FM 2231, traveling back to U.S. 180 West.
Cutline, top photo: Through traffic on U.S. Highway 180 west of Breckenridge must detour at FM 2231 to the south while repairs are made to the roadway. (Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)
