COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — Several large construction projects across southern Colorado are nearing completion this year, promising relief for drivers who have navigated years of road work and traffic delays.
The Colorado Department of Transportation expects to finish multiple major projects in 2026, including significant work on Interstate 25 that has impacted commuters for nearly three years.
I-25 construction from Fillmore Street to Garden of the Gods nearing completion
The extensive I-25 project stretching from Fillmore to the Garden of the Gods exit should be completed by early fall, according to CDOT spokesperson Amber Shipley.
"We're getting closer," said Shipley. "So coming up in about nine months, we should have that completely done."
The nearly three-year project will add more acceleration and deceleration lanes to both northbound and southbound I-25.
"To really ease some of the congestion, making it a little bit easier for people to merge onto the interstate and to get off of the interstate," said Shipley.
Over the next couple of months, crews will repair the bridge over Garden of the Gods Road, which will impact drivers through overnight weekend closures of I-25. Following the bridge work, crews will resurface I-25 from Fillmore to the Garden of the Gods.
"Which I know is a much needed and will be much enjoyed by drivers through the area," said Shipley.
Airport Road and Powers Boulevard interchange project
Across Colorado Springs, construction at the intersection of Airport Road and Powers Boulevard is scheduled for completion by July 2026. The project involves installing a diverging diamond interchange that has transformed the area over the past couple of years.
"The nice thing, if you're taking Powers Boulevard, you're not going to have a stoplight there anymore. You won't be inhibited by an additional place to stop. It will help alleviate the congestion and the flow issues that occur on most interchanges," said Shipley.
New projects beginning in 2026
As some projects finish, others are just beginning. CDOT plans to resurface Highway 24 between Peyton and Calhan this year.
"So drivers have a smoother surface, a little safer surface to drive on," said Shipley.
A similar project will take place in Pueblo West on Highway 50 east of McCulloch Boulevard to the Fremont County line. The work will include resurfacing, new guardrails, new signage and bridge rehabilitation along that section of roadway.
___
New state law raises cost of furnaces and water heaters
A new law is restricting how your home is powered. Gas furnaces and water heaters installed in Colorado must adhere to strict emission standards beginning this year.
____
Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.