Mt. Rose avalanche control system being replaced

Drivers can expect delays and stoppages as the avalanche control system located at the Mt. Rose Highway (State Route 431) summit is replaced, according to a news release from the Nevada Department of Transportation.

Through October, drivers can anticipate intermittent weekday traffic delays and stoppages near the summit during installation of the new system, the release said. Delays are anticipated to be less than 30 minutes as a helicopter delivers components for the project.

NDOT said it will attempt to provide advance notice of closures via the media and NVRoads.com.

Since 1992, NDOT has housed a remote-controlled avalanche control system near the summit. When snow builds up, NDOT stops traffic away from the area and activates the system to send shock waves which shake loose snow toward the highway. NDOT plow operators then remove the snow and reopen the road. These controlled releases of snow can help prevent the unpredictable and potentially dangerous snow slides that could bury vehicles and motorists on the highway.

The new system will use advanced avalanche control technologies to further ensure the safety and connectivity of highway travelers, the NDOT release said.

Also at the summit, the U.S. Forest Service is repairing restrooms, sidewalks, curbs and walkways, as well as repaving and striping the parking lot at the Mt. Rose Trailhead.