Watch CBS News

Fire Suppression Testing Set For Eisenhower/Johnson Tunnels

DENVER (AP) — The Colorado Department of Transportation will temporarily close the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnels along the Interstate 70 corridor to test a $20 million fire suppression system.

The westbound tunnel will be closed overnight Monday and Wednesday, and the eastbound tunnel will be closed overnight Tuesday and Thursday. Closures will be in effect from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. each night, and drivers will be detoured over Loveland Pass.

Because the system is in the centerline of the tunnel ceiling and several hundred detectors need to be tested, each tunnel will be completely closed.

The system features a heat detection system that can identify a fire within feet of its location and activate the water system. It also will activate cameras so on-site personnel can better assess fires.

(© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.