Drivers prepare to adjust for I-25 Gap project

Along with the anticipation surrounding the start of the Interstate 25 “Gap” widening project is the realization by drivers that three years of construction are ahead.

Paul and Bonnie Griggs drive through the 18-mile stretch between Monument and Castle Rock regularly, and said they’re ready to cope with slower travel and added congestion.

“I’m looking forward to being able to getting back to 40 minutes back home, instead of an hour and a half,” Paul Griggs said. “I can accept more traffic. It can’t get much slower than it already is.”

“It’ll be great,” Bonnie Griggs said. “We’re looking forward to it, and I can’t wait for it to begin.”

Even though workers plan to keep two lanes open in each direction during the day, and spread the construction over three phases, some drivers are looking for ways around the area.

The most obvious detour is Highway 83, which parallels I-25 to the east.

“But it has its own issues with traffic congestion,” said Tamara Rollison, of the Colorado Department of Transportation. “We’re not recommending it as a detour.”

Paul Lundeen, a Republican state lawmaker from Monument, said the project will require a major effort from drivers to slow down, drive safely, be alert and be patient.

Some officials at Thursday’s groundbreaking ceremony provided some good news regarding the unpopular addition of toll lanes to the project.

CDOT said three or more carpoolers in the same vehicle will be allowed to drive in the toll lanes for free, and two lawmakers said the agency is considering a toll charge only during peak travel periods — something that CDOT said hasn’t been decided yet.

El Paso County Commissioner Mark Waller, who unsuccessfully pushed for a further widening of the gap, isn’t giving up on the idea.

“The project includes a fourth lane through Monument and a fourth lane at the exit for the Renaissance Festival,” he said. “We’re getting closer to having four lanes in each direction.”

Waller also said bridge work that is part of the gap project will widen the structures so that a fourth lane can easily be added in the future.

Construction begins Tuesday on the north end of the gap near Castle Rock. The $350 million project is scheduled for completion in late 2021 or early 2022.