This morning at approximately 11:15, Coal Creek Fire responded to a report of a natural gas line being cut. After investigating the scene, it was determined that the leak posed a potential threat to public safety and Highway 72 was closed between Ranch Elsie Road and Gross Dam Road. Homes within this section of road were evacuated as a precaution. The leak was stopped at approximately 4:00 p.m. and evacuations were lifted at that time. However, Highway 72 is expected to remain closed between Ranch Elsie Road and Gross Dam Road through the morning commute as crews work to restore natural gas service to the upper canyon. Many of our residents are without natural gas at this time. Those impacted should have received a message from Xcel Energy with regard to restoring service and relighting appliances. Please plan an extra ten minutes for your morning commute.
The best route to avoid this closure is to use Gross Dam Road. If traveling west on highway 72 turn right at Station #1 onto Crescent Park Drive. If traveling east on highway 72 turn left onto Gross Dam Road. Gross Dam Rd is a dirt road, so please use caution. Our thanks to everyone for driving safely and not speeding on the detour routes.
