I-70 Mountain Express Lane launches text alert system for traffic updates

A new text alert system for the I-70 Mountain Express Lane was unveiled at the Colorado Transportation Investment Office (CTIO) Board of Directors meeting on May 14, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance communication with the public and stakeholders by providing timely notifications about unexpected lane closures, delays, and openings.

The system, which has already garnered nearly 500 subscribers, is modeled after a similar program used for Boyd Hill closures. Stakeholders expressed appreciation for the improved communication, particularly as the Express Lane plans to implement flexible hours and days of operation. "This text alert system is really going to go a long way to help inform drivers," said a CTIO representative, highlighting the importance of addressing stakeholder feedback.

In addition to the text alerts, the CTIO is also launching a calendar on its website to provide transparency regarding the planned operational days for the Express Lane. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure that drivers and stakeholders are well-informed about the lane's status.

The meeting also touched on the ongoing challenges of budget constraints, with officials acknowledging that the upcoming year is expected to be tight. They emphasized the need for proactive measures to protect transportation funding from further cuts.

Overall, the introduction of the text alert system marks a significant step towards improving communication and operational transparency for Colorado's transportation infrastructure.