Rt 218 is a challenge to keep open due to its route on the side of Storm King Mountain. A man was killed in an avalanche along 218 during the blizzard in March '93. Shortly after that NYSDOT put up permanent gates on each side of the mountain section to close the road during heavy rain and snow events. Falling rocks/boulders are a somewhat regular occurrence as well. Its a great drive, and a commuter route for folks who work at West Point, they'll likely be closed for months.