Pikes Peak Highway adjusts protocol for new shuttle bus service
On Tuesday, just the third day into a new shuttle bus service, the Pikes Peak Highway is easing up on its requirement that people avoid driving to the summit and use the shuttle instead.
Manager Jack Glavan said, to better respond to changing levels of traffic congestion and to prevent long waits by visitors, some drivers will be allowed to travel to the summit and not be required to park at the two shuttle lots.
Some drivers — including those traveling with small children, those with disabilities and motorcycle riders — are already exempt from the shuttle requirement.
“We have only 100 parking spaces at the summit,” Glavan said. “Depending on traffic levels, we’ll let from 30 to 50 drivers park up there if the shuttle lots are full.”
That may seem unfair to people who’d rather drive to the summit than ride the shuttle.
“With things being so new, still, I think they’re still working out a lot of details on that,” said Ashley McNally, a parking attendant.
During Monday’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new Summit Complex, several tourists told KRDO NewsChannel 13 that they ignored the shuttle buses and drove to the summit.
“If someone is doing that, it’s super aggravating,” said Jennifer Karstens, of Colorado Springs. “Especially when the staff is trying to increase safety and improve traffic flow.”
But Glavan said that only a few drivers are intentionally breaking the rules.
“I don’t think we need to increase enforcement,” he said. “We rely on the honor system and most drivers follow the rules. It hasn’t been an issue yet.”
Glavan asks drivers for their continued patience and understanding.
“It’s still a work in progress,” he said of the new shuttle bus service.
In a related matter, two Colorado Springs city leaders responded Tuesday to The Broadmoor’s request for help in restoring the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The train closed this year to allow its owners to evaluate its future.
“The city, I’m sure, wants to partner with them, and I don’t know how that can come together,” said City Council President Richard Skorman. “But this is a huge amenity for the community. It really is something that we all need to come together on, to see if we can help bring back.”
Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers said he’s not in favor of using taxpayer money or budgetary funds to help the railway, but using money from the city’s lodging and car rental tax is a possibility, provided the City Council approves it.
