Drivers should expect delays when traveling over Molas Pass on U.S. Highway 550 between Durango and Silverton for the next two days.

Lisa Schwantes, spokeswoman for the Colorado Department of Transportation, said crews are conducting routine maintenance, cleaning up rock and debris off the shoulder of the highway from about Lime Creek Road to the top of Molas Pass, about a 3-mile section of road.

“The reason why it’s narrowed to one lane is to give them some room to work,” she said.

Crews started work Tuesday and will continue until Thursday, working from about 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

During this time, Highway 550 will be shut down to one lane with alternating traffic. Schwantes said drivers can expect about 15-minute delays.

“Take your time going through the work zone area,” she said. “Please be careful and watch out for our personnel and equipment.”

CDOT crews continue to work on the Highway 550 bridge at Hermosa Creek, north of Durango, where drivers can also expect delays. That project is expected to finish by late July or early August.

jromeo@durangoherald.com