Speed limit reduction on CO 16 (Mesa Ridge Parkway) from I-25 to intersection of Mesa Ridge Parkway and CO16/CO 21

Travel Advisory

July 29, 2025 - Southeastern Colorado - New 45 MPH speed limit goes into effect on Aug. 4

El Paso County — The Colorado Department of Transportation will reduce the speed limit on CO Highway 16 (Mesa Ridge Parkway) from Interstate 25 (Mile Point 0) to the intersection of CO 21 - CO 16 and Mesa Ridge Parkway (MP 3.11) in Fountain. The speed limit will reduce from 55 miles per hour to 45 MPH beginning on Aug. 4.

With the considerable commercial and residential growth along this stretch of CO 16, traffic flow has increased. CDOT analysis determined that reducing vehicle travel speeds will provide significant safety benefits on this busy corridor.

“Lowering the speed limit on this busy section of highway will enhance safety conditions for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists,” said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Shane Ferguson. "Lowering the speed limit in urban areas is an effective countermeasure to reduce speeds and improve safety for all road users."

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

  • Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available
  • Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections
  • Stay off your phone when crossing the street
  • Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment
  • At night, wear light colors and walk where streetlights will illuminate you
  • Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots
  • Make eye contact with drivers so you know they see you!

Safety Tips for Cyclists

  • Ride on the right with the flow of traffic
  • Obey traffic laws - you're a vehicle too
  • Ride single file whenever possible and in a straight line to be more visible
  • Use hand signals
  • Never ride impaired
  • Safety Tips for Driver
  • Look out for pedestrians and bicyclists everywhere, at all times, and especially in areas near schools, parks, shopping areas and transit stops
  • Follow the speed limit. Speeding motorists endanger everyone on the road but put pedestrians at the greatest risk for death or serious injury
  • Stop before a crosswalk, not in it
  • Never drive impaired
  • Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk
  • At night, reduce your speed and make sure your headlights are on
Map of CO Highway 16 in Fountain identifying area of speed reduction. CO 16 (Mesa Ridge Parkway) from I-25 to CO 16/CO 21 and Mesa Ridge Parkway Intersection. Speed reduction from 55 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour begins August 4.
Map of CO Highway 16 in Fountain identifying area of speed reduction. CO 16 (Mesa Ridge Parkway) from I-25 to CO 16/CO 21 and Mesa Ridge Parkway Intersection. Speed reduction from 55 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour begins August 4.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!