Telephone Town Hall Offering Citizens Forum to Talk Transportation in South Central Colorado

April 29, 2014 - Southeastern Colorado/CDOT Region 2 - TRINIDAD – The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is hosting a telephone town hall next week for the residents of Huerfano and Las Animas counties, providing an opportunity for them to ask questions and provide input about their regional transportation priorities.

On Tuesday, May 6, at 7 p.m., citizens living in south central Colorado will be called at random through an automated system and invited to take part in the telephone forum.  Anyone who wants to participate but did not receive a call can dial in, toll-free, at 1-877-229-8493, PIN 112034. Those who choose to join the call will have the chance to express their thoughts and ask questions about transportation.  Participants also will be able to use their keypad to answer live polls.

“This is a great opportunity to be part of the conversation between CDOT and the citizens of southern Colorado,” said South Central Transportation Planning Region Chairman Priscilla “Pete” Fraser. “Continually improving conditions along Interstate 25 and expanding transit services are just two of the important issues in this part of the state.  Employing the telephone town hall concept is unique and an excellent way of reaching out to the citizens as part of the transportation planning process.”

CDOT is hosting the telephone town halls for residents in all 64 counties through early June.  Coloradans are being encouraged to join the conversation and express their thoughts on how CDOT should focus its limited funding, discuss the link between transportation and the economy, and weigh in on regional priorities.

“The projects and programs that’ll improve the quality of life and safety of the traveling public in southern Colorado is what’s key for me,” said Colorado Transportation Commissioner Bill Thiebaut.  “Maintaining our roads is essential for our economy – be it for agriculture, tourism or other purposes.  Even something as simple as expanding the shoulders on our rural roads can allow our motorists to safely pull over, our bicyclists to safely share the road, and our wildlife to be appreciated.”