Press Release
City of Aspen plans Smuggler Bridge replacement project
Community input sought at Oct. 7 open house
Aspen, CO – The city of Aspen is planning to replace the Smuggler Bridge on Power Plant Road next year. The bridge carries the roadway over Castle Creek and provides critical secondary access in and out of the city.
The existing bridge was constructed in 1973 and 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 project will address the existing bridge's structural and functional needs while considering floodplain requirements, wildfire and emergency access, neighborhood and community impacts, environmental considerations and long-term maintenance.
The city and its consultant team are currently in the design development phase. Because the bridge is located in a highly visible area, the design process will consider both the bridge's structural performance and its appearance within the Castle Creek corridor.
The city will host its first public open house on Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Pearl Pass conference room at Aspen City Hall. Community members are invited to learn more about the project, review preliminary design concepts, ask questions and provide input on the aesthetic design of the bridge.
“The Smuggler Bridge is an important piece of Aspen’s transportation and emergency access network, and we want the community to be involved as we develop the design,” said Jack Danneberg, the city’s senior project manager. “This first open house is an opportunity to learn more about why the bridge needs to be replaced and provide feedback as the design takes shape.”
The bridge design is preliminary and will continue to evolve as engineering and community engagement progress. A second public open house is anticipated in January 2027.
Construction is anticipated to begin in April 2027. Minimizing impacts during construction will also be a major goal.
Exact construction phasing and anticipated impacts are still being determined and will depend on the final bridge design and construction approach. The city will share additional information as the project progresses.
For more information and project updates, visit aspencommunityvoice.com
For more information, please contact:
Jack Danneberg, Senior Project Manager
Phone: 970-987-2950
Email: [email protected]
Emily Ford, Communications Specialist
Phone: 970-379-9373
Email: [email protected]