Urgent: I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange Project Relaunched for 2029
UPDATE: The town of Gypsum has just relaunched the critical I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange project, aiming for a construction start date in 2029. This initiative responds to increasing traffic congestion that has plagued the region, significantly impacting daily commutes and emergency services.
Residents have felt the strain as population growth in western Eagle County has more than doubled since 2000, leading to heightened delays on local roads. In 2024, the Eagle County Regional Airport recorded a record number of enplanements, further stressing the infrastructure. The existing interchanges in Gypsum and Eagle are now at capacity, resulting in severe bottlenecks that jeopardize safety and efficiency.
The urgency of this project cannot be overstated. With nearly 20,000 residents living between Eagle and Gypsum, the potential for emergencies such as wildfires could threaten vital evacuation routes. The new interchange will serve as a lifeline, providing quicker access for emergency responders and alternative routes during disasters.
The proposed interchange, located halfway between the current Gypsum and Eagle exits, aims to alleviate congestion on the area’s roadways. Traffic projections indicate a potential drop of 20% at the Gypsum interchange and 30% at the Eagle interchange, significantly extending their lifespan by up to 15 years. This will save taxpayers from the substantial costs associated with expanding those interchanges in the near future.
This project is a collaborative effort, with the town of Gypsum working alongside Eagle County and other key partners. The Colorado Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration are actively involved in the Project Leadership Team, highlighting its importance on a regional scale.
As Gypsum Town Manager Jeremy Rietmann stated, “This initiative is about more than just moving cars; it secures our region’s long-term future.” The project aims to enhance overall connectivity, making travel safer and more efficient for locals and visitors alike, crucial for the region’s tourism-dependent economy.
Next steps involve finalizing the design and securing necessary funding. Community members are encouraged to stay updated on the project’s progress by visiting TownofGypsum.com and clicking on the “I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange” link.
The relaunch of the I-70 Eagle Airport Interchange project marks a pivotal moment for Gypsum and surrounding communities. With its ambitious goals for improving infrastructure and ensuring public safety, this initiative promises to transform travel in the Eagle River Valley for years to come.
