$281 Million East Colfax Project to Bring Bus Rapid Transit Lanes to Denver and Aurora
A significant transformation is coming to East Colfax Avenue, where a $281 million project will see the installation of bus lanes running through the center lanes from Civic Center Station to Yosemite. The ambitious plan involves tearing up the road to create elevated bus stops in the middle of the street, making it easier and faster for passengers to board and disembark. Beyond Yosemite, the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system will extend into Aurora, reaching Wheeling Way and the VA Medical Center, with buses operating in the side lanes in that stretch.
The project is designed to enhance travel along the Colfax corridor, with buses arriving at stops every four minutes and 20 seconds—a frequency that some suggest might be a subtle nod to Denver’s cannabis culture. Additionally, the BRT system aims to improve safety for both pedestrians and motorists. By running buses in the center lanes, the design will help ensure that drivers and pedestrians have better visibility of each other, particularly during right turns.
City Council Approves $198 Million Contract
Denver city officials provided an update on the East Colfax BRT project, confirming that construction is set to begin in October. The City Council’s Land Use, Transportation, and Infrastructure Committee approved a nearly $200 million contract with Kraemer North America Inc. for the construction of the roadway, bus stops, and related infrastructure. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Traffic Concerns on 14th Avenue
Several council members raised concerns about the potential impact of the BRT on traffic along nearby streets, particularly 13th and 14th Avenues. Council member Amanda Sawyer expressed worries that diverting traffic onto these already dangerous roads could worsen the situation. Although traffic studies suggest that only two or three additional cars per minute will be added to these streets, Sawyer pointed out that 14th Avenue is particularly hazardous, with incidents of cars crashing into yards, houses, and garages. She stressed the need for traffic calming measures, noting that the ongoing relocation of water lines on Colfax in preparation for BRT construction has already caused an increase in traffic on 14th Avenue.
Accessibility Concerns for Wheelchair Users
Council member Chris Hinds raised concerns about the accessibility of the new bus stops for wheelchair users. While the project meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, Hinds emphasized that this does not guarantee that the stops will be easily navigable for all wheelchair users. He urged the project team to consider the practical challenges that might arise for people with disabilities.
Additional Support Needed for Small Businesses
Council members Amanda Sawyer, Flor Alvidrez, and Chris Hinds also highlighted the need for more financial support for small businesses that may be adversely affected by the construction. With only $1 million currently allocated for assistance, the council members argued that a much larger sum—around $5 million—would be necessary to adequately support these businesses during the extended construction period.
