Remote-controlled avalanche mitigation system coming to Utah
In an effort to enhance safety and improve avalanche mitigation efforts in Little Cottonwood Canyon, the Utah Department of Transportation is installing a remote-controlled system.
“This project is part of UDOT’s long-term plan to reduce the amount of military artillery fired in the canyon,” UDOT Avalanche Safety Program Manager Steven Clark said in a statement. “By using this technology, we will enhance safety and become even more effective at preventing avalanches from reaching our roads.”
Work began in July and is expected to continue through October.
Loose rock and unstable soil must be removed before safety features are added and the installation process, which involves special helicopters, can begin.
In all, 16 Wyssen Avalanche Towers will be installed on the Mount Superior ridgeline above the road in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
The towers will use wireless communication to deploy explosive charges that hang just over ground to trigger an avalanche. In the past, avalanche and road crews used howitzers to trigger approximately 330 controlled avalanches annually.
Avalanches will now be triggered from a safe location and with greater efficiency, according to Utah transportation officials.
No major road closures are expected, but short-term closures in both directions of state Route 210 near Alta are likely. UDOT said the bypass road will remain open as an alternative route to the upper canyon area.
Those traveling to the upper canyon area for recreation are encouraged to consult the map on the project website. Mount Superior recreation area closures, including trails and climbing routes, will be in effect through the duration of the project.
“Respecting the construction area closure will help us get the new towers installed as safely and quickly as possible so we can begin using them this winter,” said Becky Stromness, UDOT Region Two project manager.
Utah transportation officials plan for the towers to be operational for the 2024 and 2025 winter season. LL
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