Diverging Diamond Interchange

If you have ever driven on a Diverging Diamond Interchange, you might be thinking what in the world is going on? They want me to drive on the other side of the road? Is this even safe? Is this really better than a normal interchange?

If you have had any of these thoughts, you are in the right place!

What is a DDI and what are the benefits?

Traditional interchanges are great, but for interchanges like the I-25/US 50B Interchange with higher traffic volumes, a DDI is the safest and most efficient solution. A DDI eliminates left turns against oncoming traffic, eliminates traffic signal phases reducing delays, and provides a better sight distance for drivers. These interchanges can reduce all crashes by 37% and more serious fatal crashes by more than 50%.

How will it work?

Northbound I-25 access at the interchange will generally be the same for travelers using the interchange. The ramps will allow you to enter and exit northbound I-25 at US 50 without having to navigate over I-25 on the DDI structure.

Southbound I-25 access will look different since the tight circular ramps at the current structure will be eliminated and more traditional on- and off-ramps will be constructed. If you are traveling west on US 50 over I-25 and looking to access southbound I-25, you will first approach a traffic signal. When the traffic signal turns green, you will follow your lane to the left side of the roadway and be able to merge onto southbound I-25 without having to stop at a light to turn left.

If you are traveling on southbound I-25 and need to access eastbound US 50, you will first exit southbound I-25 using the off-ramp. The off-ramp will then merge into an eastbound lane on the left side of US 50, eliminating the need to stop at a light at the top of the ramp to turn left. Once you navigate over I-25, you will approach a traffic signal. Once the signal turns green, you will follow your lane to the right side of the roadway and continue east on US 50 in a normal traffic configuration.

DDIs have been proven to increase mobility around and have been implemented in various communities across Colorado. As a matter of fact, you can find two of these interchanges in Colorado Springs at I-25 and Fillmore Street, and CO Highway 21/Powers Boulevard and Research Parkway. If you are still confused or want to see how a Diverging Diamond Interchange operates, check out the video below from CDOT to learn more.

A video showing how to drive a Diverging Diamond Interchange and the benefits of a DDI