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 in 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.
Following engineering analysis, the city determined that a full bridge replacement is the preferred long-term solution.
The new bridge will be designed to balance structural performance, floodplain requirements, wildfire and emergency access, neighborhood and community impacts, environmental considerations and long-term maintenance needs.
Current Work
The project is currently in the design development phase. The bridge design is preliminary and will continue to evolve as engineering and community engagement progress. The city and its consultant team will consider both the functional requirements of the bridge and its appearance within the Castle Creek corridor.
What’s Next
The city hosted its first public open house on October 7, 2026. The open house provided an opportunity for the community to:
- Learn more about the project and why the bridge needs to be replaced
- Review the preliminary design
- Learn about anticipated construction and access considerations
- Provide input on the aesthetic design of the bridge
- Ask questions of the City and project team
A second public open house is anticipated in January 2027 as the project design advances.
Construction
Construction is anticipated to begin in April 2027. Minimizing impacts during construction will also be a major goal.
Exact construction phasing and traffic impacts are still being determined and will depend on the final bridge design and construction approach. Additional information will be shared as the project progresses.
Community Input
Community input will help inform the project as the design progresses, including consideration of the bridge's aesthetic design and its relationship to the surrounding neighborhood and Castle Creek corridor.
The city will continue to provide opportunities for community members to learn about the project, ask questions and provide feedback throughout the design process.
Stay Informed
Project updates and future opportunities to participate will be posted on this page as the project progresses.
The city encourages community members to attend the October 7 open house to learn more about the project and provide input on the preliminary design.
Hi Emily and Jack, My name is Patrice Conyers and I have lived above the bridge in the white and gray duplex on West Francis for 40 years. I would like to see the bridge replaced as close to it's current design as it can be, for a lower price point and less visual disturbance. I favor Design Option 1. If that is not to the public's approval possibly add stone columns from Option 2, but keep the railings low. Thank you.