Local Leaders Approve Plan To Widen I-25

Plans are in place to widen a stretch of I-25, which should ease traffic tie-ups at the north end of the Colorado Springs.

Posted: 10:20 PM Apr 11, 2012
Updated: 5:43 AM Apr 12, 2012
Reporter: KKTV

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Driving north on I-25 heading out of Colorado Springs, three lanes of highway become two. It’s the same coming in from Monument.

"Definitely around rush hour in both directions it can be a headache," said Juan, who commutes to Denver from Colorado Springs and back for work.

For those who make the drive often, it makes cruising on I-25 less than ideal.

"It’s always interesting,” said Mike, who lives in Colorado Springs. “You never know what's going to happen when it comes to drive time."

Officials are ready to see the congestion ease. The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments approved Wednesday a plan to add another lane on I-25 in both directions.

When the $66 million of work is done, drivers can expect six lanes from Woodmen Road to Monument. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will cover most of the cost.

PPACG spokesperson Jason Wilkinson told 11 News about $5 million in funding is still missing, some of which could come from the local tax dollars.*

If an extra lane clears up the commute, drivers told 11 News it's worth it.

"I would like wider roads,” said Jessica. “I think it worked out when it was done the first time."

Construction work on the interstate won't begin until fall at the earliest. The widening should be complete by the end of 2013.

*Correction: Posted by: PPACG, Apr 12, 2012 at 09:00 AM

Just to clarify: no local sales or property tax dollars would be used. Only state and federal gas tax dollars appropriated to our region would be used.