Big Changes To I-25 In Pueblo

Big changes are headed for Pueblo. The Colorado Department of Transportation has unleased its plan to improve Interstate 25. It’s being called the New Pueblo Freeway Project and will cost $750 million.

A better highway, but more than 100 homes and 50 businesses may have to relocate.

“We’re not very excited about this plan,” said Rick Hobbs.

Hobbs said the plan will affect his customers. Hobbs Carpet is a family business that has been open for half a century.

“For 59 years, people have gotten off on exit 98A without any problems and stopped right at our building,” said Hobbs.

That could soon change. CDOT released their plans on improving I-25 throughout Pueblo. The draft includes adding room to ramps and removing tight curves.

“They’ve been fiddling around with this for 10 years,” said Hobbs.

CDOT said construction could start in 2013. One of the first phases will limit the access into Hobbs Carpet. Hobbs is located of of Ilex and Santa Fe, the proposal shows they would realign that interchange.

“Our concern is that people will not be able to find us as easily as they do now. There’s no question about that,” said Hobbs.

Hobbs said he is planning a rebuttal against the new proposal.

Meanwhile, CDOT wants your input. They?re having a public hearing on Dec. 8th at the Pueblo Convention Center beginning at 5:30 p.m.