Commuters navigating US 85 through Douglas County can expect to encounter novel traffic configurations as new Continuous Flow Intersections (CFIs) are set to open at key junctures in the region. The modifications, which are a part of the larger US 85 Widening Project, specifically target the intersections at Highlands Ranch Parkway, Town Center Drive, and later, C-470. According to Douglas County, the CFIs are on track to become fully operational, with the inaugural opening phases for the intersections at Highlands Ranch Parkway and Town Center Drive scheduled for the mornings of March 19 and March 26, weather permitting.
The introduction of CFIs aims to streamline vehicular movement by displacing left-turning traffic to the outer lanes, which in turn allows directly traveling cars to continue unimpeded through an intersection's center. To facilitate these changes, overnight construction will be necessary, anticipated to also bring about brief lane closures. As reported by Douglas County, the transition for the southbound US 85 to eastbound Highlands Ranch Parkway and Town Center Drive traffic will take effect on the specified March mornings.
For those uncertain about how to navigate a CFI, directions are made available for perusal. Drivers aiming to turn left at the newly constructed intersections will be expected to follow a newly installed signal before the primary intersection, move to the far-left side of the road, and then execute their left turn while through traffic proceeds as per the norms of a traditional intersection. Additionally, right-turning traffic benefits from dedicated right-turn bypass lanes that enable right turns on red during the displaced left-turn movements.
The US 85 project extends beyond these intersections; road widening from four to six lanes, bridge enhancements over C-470, and multimodal improvements have been integral to the overhaul. These include bus stop upgrades, and the addition of a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists, and below-grade crossings for the C-470 and High Line Canal Trails. As per Douglas County, the new trails and underpasses are due to open in April 2025, assuming cooperative weather. The project is expected to wrap up by the summer of the same year after final asphalt layers and miscellaneous tasks are completed.
