CDOT gets public input on toll roads for I-25 gap expansion

The proposed expansion of Interstate 25 between Monument and Castle Rock may come down to toll roads, and the Colorado Department of Transportation got input from residents on whether they’re willing to pay.

During a public meeting Thursday night, CDOT officials said the $350 million project would widen the 18-mile stretch by adding an 11-foot-wide express lane in each direction. The stretch of road hasn’t seen any major work since the early ’60s, according to CDOT.

But CDOT is considering making those extra lanes part-time toll lanes. Prices would adjust depending on the amount of traffic at peak hours.

(See the details of the proposal -> https://www.codot.gov/projects/I25COSDEN/I25COSDEN )

Pricing could be between one and three dollars.

“I think it will make traffic flow smoother, and it’s an option that if the tolls are there, people can choose to use them and they can choose not to use them,” said traveler John Baldassari.

El Paso County is funding $25 million of the budget.

“We are on a fast track to get this project done,” said Tamara Rollinson with CDOT. “We will be ready to go on construction by the end of next year. We will be able to start building as long as the funding is there.”