The City of Colorado Springs has announced that the next phase of the South Academy Boulevard Improvements Project is slated to resume on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. The work is focused on rebuilding the road stretching from East Fountain Boulevard to Jet Wing Drive. This phase will address not only the road surface itself but also upgrade utilities and solve longstanding drainage issues.
As part of the preparations for this extensive construction effort, overnight closures on parts of South Academy Boulevard between Astrozon Boulevard and Drennen Road will begin on the evening of January 18. These closures, which will occur from Sunday through Thursday, will see crews busy at work removing antiquated lane markings, applying new temporary ones, and installing concrete barriers. According to the City of Colorado Springs, the schedule for closure includes segments of Astrozon Blvd to Hancock Expressway and Hancock Expressway to Drennen Rd on varying days.
For drivers navigating the changes, the city has provided detour routes. When specific sections are out of commission, detour signs posted around the area should guide motorists back to South Academy Boulevard using alternative routes through Hancock and Astrozon. Come January 26, commuters can expect a new layout with reduced lanes and shifted traffic between Hancock and Drennen, and a different shift between Hancock and Astrozon.
To maintain a semblance of normalcy in traffic flow, the city promises to keep two lanes open each way during peak hours. However, the speed limit through the construction zone has been mandated at 35 mph. Notably, some slip ramps connecting Hancock Expressway to South Academy Boulevard will also shut down starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, January 26. Drivers will then need to utilize the signalized intersections for right-hand turns. Pedestrian and public transport access may also be rearranged temporarily, affecting walkways and bus stops. "Businesses will remain open with signs for changes," the City of Colorado Springs states, underscoring the importance of local commerce even amid the construction. The city additionally cautions drivers to slow down and watch for signs, workers, and equipment.
