denver boulder turnpike

The Denver-Boulder Turnpike: A Colorado Icon

The Denver-Boulder Turnpike, officially known as US 36, is a vital transportation artery connecting Colorado’s two largest metropolitan areas. This 17-mile stretch of highway facilitates significant daily commutes and intercity travel, experiencing substantial traffic volume.

History and Construction

The need for a direct route between Denver and Boulder became apparent in the mid-20th century. Construction of the Denver-Boulder Turnpike began in 1950, and it officially opened to traffic in January 1952. It was originally conceived as a toll road to recover construction costs, and tolls were collected until 1967. More comprehensive information about the history can be found on Wikipedia’s U.S. Route 36 in Colorado page.

Route and Features

The Turnpike begins near downtown Denver, running northwestward through several cities, including Westminster and Broomfield, before reaching Boulder. The highway is primarily a four-lane divided highway, though sections have been expanded to six or eight lanes to accommodate the increasing traffic volume. It features interchanges with major highways and arterial roads, providing access to various communities along the route.

Traffic and Congestion

As the Denver and Boulder metropolitan areas have grown, the Turnpike has experienced increasing traffic congestion, especially during peak commute hours. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has implemented various strategies to mitigate congestion, including the addition of express lanes and intelligent transportation systems that monitor traffic flow and adjust signal timings.

Recent Improvements and Future Plans

CDOT has undertaken several major improvement projects in recent years to enhance safety and reduce congestion on the Turnpike. These projects have included widening the highway, adding auxiliary lanes, improving interchanges, and implementing bus rapid transit (BRT) services. Future plans may include further expansion of express lanes and the development of high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes to encourage carpooling and reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road.

FAQs

Is the Denver-Boulder Turnpike still a toll road?

No, the tolls were removed in 1967.

How long is the Denver-Boulder Turnpike?

Approximately 17 miles.

What is the speed limit on the Turnpike?

The speed limit varies, but is typically 65-75 mph depending on the location.

What are the main cities along the Denver-Boulder Turnpike?

Denver, Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder.

What is CDOT doing to ease congestion on the Denver-Boulder Turnpike?

CDOT has implemented express lanes, intelligent transportation systems, and bus rapid transit services.

Summary

The Denver-Boulder Turnpike (US 36) is a crucial transportation link between Denver and Boulder, Colorado. Originally a toll road, it now serves as a vital, albeit often congested, highway for commuters and travelers alike. Ongoing improvement projects aim to enhance safety and alleviate traffic, ensuring the Turnpike remains a critical component of Colorado’s transportation infrastructure.