UPDATE: The I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange project has officially been relaunched, with a target construction start date of 2029, as confirmed by officials in Gypsum and Eagle County. This urgent initiative aims to alleviate chronic traffic congestion and improve safety for the over 20,000 residents living between Eagle and Gypsum.
Recent data shows that the population in western Eagle County has more than doubled since 2000, leading to increased visitor traffic and significant strain on local infrastructure. In 2024, the Eagle County Regional Airport reported record enplanements, further highlighting the need for improved access to the interstate.
The existing interchanges in Gypsum and Eagle are currently overloaded, creating severe bottlenecks that hinder emergency response times and exacerbate local traffic conditions. When accidents occur on I-70, local roads become inundated with heavy traffic, paralyzing the towns. Safety concerns are heightened, especially during wildfire threats, as there are only two evacuation routes available for residents.
The newly relaunched project will create a vital new access point halfway between the current Gypsum and Eagle exits. This initiative is not merely about moving vehicles; it is crucial for securing the region’s long-term future and enhancing the quality of life for all residents and visitors.
Key benefits of the interchange include:
– **Faster emergency access** to critical areas
– **Alternative routes** during disasters, ensuring safety for residents
– **Reduced truck traffic** on local roads, improving commute times
– **Enhanced connectivity** for tourists, recreational enthusiasts, and local workers
Traffic projections indicate that the addition of the interchange could reduce congestion by approximately 20% at the Gypsum interchange and 30% at the Eagle interchange. This will significantly extend the lifespan of both interchanges by up to 15 years, saving taxpayers from the expensive need for immediate expansions.
This project is a collaboration among multiple stakeholders, with Eagle County as a key partner. It has been included in the county’s 2024/2025 Strategic Plan, with the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration actively involved in the Project Leadership Team.
The road ahead is long, as final designs and funding arrangements will be established in the coming years. However, this initiative is a significant step toward ensuring safer and more connected infrastructure for everyone in the community.
For ongoing updates about the project, residents can visit TownofGypsum.com and click on the “I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange” link.
ACT NOW: Stay informed and advocate for this essential project that promises to transform commuting and safety in the Eagle River Valley.
