The project aims to calm traffic and create safer, more comfortable options for people walking, biking, and moving in other ways. Currently, sidewalks are narrow and directly next to traffic, making them less comfortable and safe for both pedestrians and cyclists. Traffic data shows that a high number of vehicles speed on this stretch of Colorado Boulevard—some even exceeding 60 mph in a 40 mph zone. By adjusting the number and width of travel lanes, the design helps reduce speeding and creates space for separated, safer multimodal paths.

Project benefits include but are not limited to:

• Enhancing the neighborhood feel of the roadway given the surrounding land uses and character;
• Facilitating traffic calming to reinforce appropriate driver behavior on the segment;
• Shortening exposed pedestrian crossing distances across Colorado Blvd;
• Providing enhanced multimodal opportunities for users to choose from;
• Providing additional buffers and separation between vehicles and other users as well as from neighboring properties.

The project will add 10- to 12-foot wide shared-use paths on both sides of Colorado Blvd. These paths will be physically separated from vehicle traffic, providing safe, comfortable space for people walking and biking in both directions. This will make it easier to access schools, businesses, parks, and neighborhoods along the corridor—especially for students and families.

Traffic studies show that one lane in each direction, plus left turn lanes where needed, is more than enough to handle current and projected traffic. In fact, similar lane configurations already exist on Colorado Boulevard just north and south of this segment—and they work well.

Average Daily Volumes on Colorado Blvd between Arapahoe Rd and Dry Creek Rd:

• Year 2019 - Volume 11,400
• Year 2023 - Volume 10,457
• Year 2024 - Volume 11,407

Improved sightlines will help. The new design moves the curb line about 12 feet farther from existing fences, making it easier to see oncoming traffic when turning out. Also, alternative routes like Easter Ave and Nobles Rd. provide access to a signalized intersection for safer turning onto Colorado Blvd and are designed to connect local traffic to main roads.

This segment—from Arapahoe Rd. to Dry Creek Rd. — is Phase 1 of a larger plan to improve multimodal access throughout the full Colorado Blvd. corridor in Centennial, from Caley Ave. to County Line Rd.

There are improvements also planned at the intersection of Colorado and Euclid right at Newton middle school centennialco.gov/colorado.

Based on current traffic patterns, very few drivers are expected to reroute through neighborhood streets. Some might choose nearby arterials like Holly Street or University Boulevard, but local streets aren't expected to see a meaningful increase. Collector roads like Easter Avenue and Nobles Road are designed to connect local traffic to main roads.