Residents demand CDOT action on dangerous Highway 94 and Curtis Road conditions

The El Paso County Planning Commission convened on June 19, 2025, to address pressing transportation concerns raised by local residents, particularly regarding Highway 94 and its surrounding roadways. The meeting highlighted ongoing frustrations with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the need for infrastructure improvements in light of anticipated development in the area.

A resident voiced concerns about the historical promises made by CDOT to expand Highway 94 into a four-lane highway, a commitment that dates back to the mid-1970s. Despite some minor improvements, such as the addition of passing zones, the highway remains largely unchanged, leading to significant traffic congestion and safety issues. The resident reported that traffic has increased dramatically, with a steady stream of vehicles traveling eastward during early morning and evening hours, contributing to Highway 94 becoming one of the state's most accident-prone locations.

The speaker emphasized the dangers posed by speeding drivers and the challenges faced by residents trying to navigate local roads, particularly during peak commuting times. The situation is exacerbated by the influx of contractors and military personnel commuting to Schriever Air Force Base, with many drivers traveling alone in their vehicles. The resident expressed concern for the safety of families on the road, particularly mothers with children.

The resident also noted that CDOT is currently conducting a study on the area, a process that has been ongoing since the 1970s, but expressed skepticism about the timeline for any meaningful changes. They urged that road improvements, particularly on Curtis Road and other local routes, should be prioritized before any new developments begin.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the need for collaboration between the county and CDOT to address these critical infrastructure issues, as residents await further updates on the proposed studies and potential road enhancements. The discussions underscored the urgency of addressing transportation safety and capacity in the face of growing development pressures in El Paso County.