I-25 South Gap Express Lanes in Colorado open for testing this week

Drivers will be able to use the new Express Lanes on the I-25 South Gap project by Friday, Dec. 10, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced this week.

There is one new Express Lane in each direction on I-25 between Castle Rock and Monument. Tolls are currently being waived as the project opened the lanes far ahead of schedule.

“Opening the Express Lanes early improves safety and travel reliability on the I-25 South Gap corridor,” CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew said in a statement. “Commuters will have reliable travel times over the long-term, and experience a vastly improved stretch of I-25 between Monument and Castle Rock. Whether commuting to work or traveling the state, drivers will reach their destinations quicker and safer. We are thrilled to open the Express Lanes a year ahead of schedule and within budget.”

While improvements were made throughout the entire 18-mile I-25 South Gap project corridor, the Express Lanes will span 14 miles on northbound I-25 and 15 miles on southbound I-25. Motorists can use these lanes when they open to the public on Friday, Dec. 10.

CDOT says the Express Lanes are designed to provide drivers a reliable trip while relieving traffic for all roadway users. Statewide studies show that on CDOT’s Express Lanes corridors, travelers in all lanes (including the regular lanes) see time savings of anywhere from 20-50%.

While much of the construction is complete including the Express Lanes, wider shoulders, five reconstructed bridges, four wildlife crossings, new pavement and enhanced technology, other work remains to be done. Through the spring and summer of 2022, crews will finish the remaining permanent paving and striping operations near Larkspur, tolling infrastructure, and other minor construction activities to reach project completion.

The project is scheduled to be completely finished by November 2022.