The project that was on, then off, then on, is now off — again.

Flooded with concerns from local and state elected officials, appointed leaders and business owners, the Colorado Department of Transportation declined to issue the permit San Miguel Power Association needed to close U.S. Highway 550 over Red Mountain Pass starting on Aug. 9.

CDOT spokeswoman Lisa Schwantes confirmed to the Plaindealer Tuesday afternoon the state agency will not sign off on SMPA closing a 2 1/2-mile stretch of the h...