CO 79 and Kiowa-Bennett Corridor Planning & Environmental Linkage Study

Overview

In November 2013, the Town of Bennett—in partnership with Adams and Arapahoe counties and CDOT—completed a detailed transportation study of the Colorado Highway 79 and the Kiowa-Bennett Road corridors around the Bennett area, north and south of I-70. The 15-month study provided a plan to improve regional connectivity, reduce conflict and delay at the CO 79 at-grade crossing of Union Pacific Railroad, and address safety concerns along the major corridors within the study area for existing and future conditions.

The project team received feedback at two public meetings, and during close coordination with stakeholders and local agency representatives. This input was used to develop and analyze alternatives. Following three levels of screening, the team presented the recommended alternative of the East Railroad Crossing with Full Kiowa-Bennett Road Diamond Interchange.

View the PEL's recommended alternative.

View the full final report.

Next Steps

This study provides the framework for the long-term implementation of transportation improvements. The study recommendations may be constructed in separate project phases as funding is identified. Additional study, consistent with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), may be necessary before improvements can be implemented, depending on the specific project and funding source. The subsequent project phases will move forward using the information and recommendations from this study.

Next steps include:

• Secure necessary funding
• Complete NEPA analyses, if required
• Complete design
• Obtain right-of-way
• Complete construction

Currently, no funding is available for construction of the recommended improvements. The Town and Counties plan to continue with the necessary environmental and design work to position the improvements for funding as it becomes available. Once funding is available, the environmental process for project phases is expected to take 12 to 24 months. Design, right-of-way acquisition and construction could take 18 to 36 months or more, depending on funding availability and specific project elements.