CDOT works on transportation needs through 2040
Safer highways, less traffic congestion and more bicycle access are three priorities the state should have in future transportation plans, according to a draft from the Colorado Department of Transportation.
The draft is called Transportation Matters, CDOT’s preliminary statewide plan through 2040.
According to the plan, CDOT expects a 47 percent increase in highway traffic during the period.
CDOT spokesman Bob Wilson said the plan will be finalized next year and will detail what projects are needed, what they’ll cost and how to pay for them.
Wilson said mass transit and toll roads also will be considered in the plan.
“Our needs far surpass the money available,” he said. “That’s how it’s been in the past and we don’t see that changing yet. We’ll have to get creative.”
The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments is drafting a similar plan — Moving Forward 2040 — that will be submitted to CDOT for consideration as part of the state’s overall plan.
“We plan to do that in the spring and have more public input as well,” said PPACG spokeswoman Rachel Beck. “We’re about two-thirds of the way through the process.”
Several drivers agreed safety and congestion should be priorities.
“I try not to go on the freeways if I can help it,” said Linda Richardson. “I try to go around (them) because I don’t want to be out and about when the main traffic is going on.”
“There’s been a lot of progress and improvement,” said Bob Lyle. “But with the continued growth we’re experiencing in the Front Range area, the roads are not keeping up with the growth, expansion and flow of traffic.”
Jimmy Osborne, a regular bicyclist, said he’d like CDOT to improve access for riders to make longer trips easier.
“Sometimes I ride to Pueblo and Castle Rock,” said Osborne, 78. “I know there are people who’d ride to Woodland Park and Caon City if they could. There’s no side of the road. You’re right out in the road and you could get hit. I’ve been close a lot.”
For more information about the CDOT plan, visit: http://coloradotransportationmatters.com.
For more information about the regional PPACG plan, visit: http://www.movingforwardplan.org.
