Pueblo I-25 Train Derailment Investigation Underway with NTSB

Description: The Colorado Department of Transportation Released the Following Statement Regarding the I-25 Pueblo Coal Train Derailment and Current NTSB Investigation... Photo Courtesy of Pueblo County Sheriff's Office...


Published: 10/16/2023
Byline: SECO News

Federal and state officials visit site of train derailment at I-25 north of Pueblo

Interstate will remain closed until clean up and repair can take place after investigation

Colorado — On Monday, Colorado Department of Transportation Executive Director Shoshana Lew joined Colorado State Patrol District 2 Commander, Major Brian Lyons, Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt and FHWA Colorado Division Administrator John Cater to inspect the derailed train and the associated damage to Interstate 25 and the collapsed rail bridge crossing the interstate. The National Transportation Safety Board is now conducting its investigation into the incident, and any updates regarding the incident will come from the NTSB. 

The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway continues to function as the primary entity dealing with the cleanup, response and reconstruction. All entities will work together to safely open the interstate in conjunction with the NTSB investigation. 

CDOT and FHWA emphasized the importance of restoring connectivity safely and quickly to I-25 so that the vital link between Pueblo and Colorado Springs is restored. BNSF and CDOT officials began discussions regarding the process for clearing the site and making necessary repairs to the roadway. That work will begin as soon as NTSB gives clearance. If possible, some cleaning activities further away from the crash site may begin as allowed. 

BNSF estimates that clearing activities will take approximately two days, once the cleanup begins. As all of the entities involved determine other timeline elements, additional details and updates will be shared with the public. 

Meanwhile, detours remain in place with the Colorado State Patrol and local law enforcement patrolling these designated routes to ensure motorists adhere to posted speed limits

DETOURS

Southbound I-25: Colorado Highway 115 is the quickest and safest route. Drivers will head south on CO 115 until they reach Penrose, then head east on Highway 50 toward Pueblo. CO 115 is currently under construction with a wiidth restriction of 11 feet.

Northbound I-25: Motorists will exit at 101, US Highway 50 and head toward Pueblo West, then head north on Purcell until they reach I-25.

Detour routes for I-25 closure north of Pueblo.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new FREE COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

About CDOT

The Colorado Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide the best multi-modal transportation system that most effectively and safely moves people, goods and information. CDOT maintains more than 23,000 lane miles of highway, more than 3,400 bridges and 35 mountain passes. Our team of employees works tirelessly to reduce the rate and severity of crashes and improve the safety of all modes of transportation. CDOT leverages partnerships with a range of private and public organizations and operates Bustang, an interregional express bus service. Find more details at codot.gov.

Related Content:

CDOT: I-25 Remains Closed in Both Directions North of Pueblo 10/16/23

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