Smuggler Bridge Replacement Project

Project Overview

The City of Aspen is planning for the replacement of the Smuggler Bridge, which carries Power Plant Road over Castle Creek and provides a critical secondary access route into and out of the city.

Constructed in 1973, the existing bridge has exceeded its typical design service life. Engineering inspections and evaluations have identified structural, hydraulic, and scour-related concerns, as well as geometric constraints associated with the narrow roadway, steep approaches, and environmentally sensitive creek corridor.

The City initially evaluated rehabilitating the existing bridge. Following additional engineering analysis during the design process, a full bridge replacement was identified as the preferred long-term solution, providing improved safety, durability, constructability, and overall project outcomes.

The replacement project is currently anticipated to begin construction in 2027.

Upcoming Utility Investigation Work

As part of the bridge design process, the City will conduct exploratory utility investigations to identify the location and condition of existing underground utilities.

Schedule

Dates: July 20–24, 2026

Hours: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. to avoid peak traffic times

What to Expect

• Exploratory excavation near the bridge.
• One lane of traffic with alternating traffic control during work hours.
• Access to side streets and adjacent properties will be maintained, although short delays should be expected.
• Please follow all posted traffic control devices and allow additional travel time when traveling through the area.

Project Timeline

Completed

Bridge inspections and condition assessments

Geotechnical investigations

Alternatives analysis

Selection of bridge replacement as the preferred solution

Current

Utility investigations

Final design and engineering

Contractor coordination through the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) delivery process

Upcoming

Final design completion

Public outreach and construction updates

Bridge replacement construction (anticipated in 2027)

Stay Informed

The City of Aspen will continue to share project updates, construction schedules, anticipated traffic impacts, and public meeting opportunities as the project advances through design and into construction.

Thank you for your patience as we work to improve the long-term safety, reliability, and resilience of this important transportation connection.