UPDATE: The town of Gypsum has officially relaunched the I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange project, a crucial initiative designed to alleviate escalating traffic congestion and enhance safety for the growing population of the Eagle River Valley. With a significant surge in residents and visitor traffic, the need for improved infrastructure has become urgent.
Every year, traffic delays grow worse, often leaving locals scrambling to make it to work, school, or mountain activities. The population in western Eagle County has more than doubled since 2000, leading to severe strain on the existing interchanges in Gypsum and Eagle. As a result, emergency response times are hindered, and local roads are frequently overwhelmed when incidents close I-70.
Local officials highlight the critical safety risks posed by the current infrastructure. A wildfire near an interchange could threaten evacuation routes for nearly 20,000 residents living between Eagle and Gypsum. To address these challenges, the newly relaunched project aims to create a new interstate access point between the existing Gypsum and Eagle exits.
The proposed interchange is not just about improving traffic flow; it is about securing the long-term future of the region. It promises faster emergency access, alternative routes during disasters, and a reduction in heavy truck traffic on local roads. This will greatly enhance the quality of life for residents while supporting the vital tourism industry.
The projected benefits are significant: the new interchange is expected to reduce traffic at the Gypsum interchange by approximately 20% and by 30% at the Eagle interchange. This could extend the lifespan of both interchanges by up to 15 years, saving taxpayers substantial costs that would otherwise be incurred from expanding these sites in the near future.
This initiative is backed by a coalition of local authorities, including Eagle County, which has integrated the project into its 2024/2025 Strategic Plan. The Intermountain Transportation Planning Region has also identified it as a priority, with active participation from the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration.
However, implementing such a significant project will take time. The town of Gypsum and its partners are currently finalizing the design and seeking funding, with a target construction start date set for 2029.
For those interested in staying updated on the progress of this vital project, more information can be found at TownofGypsum.com under the “I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange” section.
With a growing population and increasing traffic demands, the I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange project represents a critical investment in the future safety and connectivity of the Eagle River Valley community.