Garden of the Gods Interchange Ramp Safety Improvements Return to Nevada Rockrimmon
	Project Description The I-25 Garden of the Gods interchange is one of the busiest in El Paso County. A combination of commuters, corporate employees, nearby residents and others use the interchange, which is frequently congested throughout the day. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is currently working on initial safety improvements for the interchange that will: Improve function of ramps for more efficient traffic flow. Reduce traffic backup on I-25 and eliminate conflicting traffic patterns with Rusina Road and Sinton Road access points. Enhance safety for the commuting public who travel through the I-25 Garden of the Gods interchange. Eventual long-term improvements to the interchange will increase overall interchange capacity and allow for expected 2020 traffic volumes.
Exhibits and Proposed Action from  July 17, 2001 March 20, 2001	Challenges Initial Improvements: Improve function of ramps for more efficient traffic flow. Reduce traffic backup on I-25 and eliminate conflicting traffic patterns with Rusina Road and Sinton Road access points. Enhance safety for the commuting public who travel through the I-25 Garden of the Gods interchange. Mid-range improvements: Address I-25 capacity improvements at the interchange. Long-range improvements: Improve overall interchange capacity and allow for expected 2020 traffic volumes.
	Initial Solutions CDOT will propose design concepts for southbound and northbound safety improvements to existing ramps.
	Top Priorities The primary goals of this project are to improve safety for the traveling public at the southbound and northbound off-ramps. Safety improvements are expected to aid traffic congestion. The designs will be compatible with subsequent mid-range and long-range solutions. CDOT will work with area residents and businesses during construction to minimize impact on the community. CDOT will actively involve the public throughout the design phases of the project.
	Funding The preliminary budget for initial ramp safety improvements is approximately $3 million.
	Estimated Timeline CDOT has started the design phase for these safety improvements.  Construction will begin as soon as funding is available.
	Last Modified: 12/30/2003