Construction is underway to create the Ridgegate Interchange near the highly congested Lincoln Ave. (photo by Terri Wiebold)

by Lisa Crockett

Construction adjacent to northbound I-25 may mean some minor delays for commuters from Castle Pines North (CPN) in the coming months. The long-anticipated Ridgegate interchange, designed to alleviate congestion on Lincoln Avenue, is finally underway.

“This is about a 20-month project, so we’re looking at a completion date of sometime in late 2008 or early 2009,” said Lone Tree City Engineer John Cotton, who is coordinating the project.

After some preparation of the ground in September to ease digging, road building equipment arrived at the site, which is just south of Lincoln Avenue, and construction began in earnest. At some point during the project, a “construction zone” speed limit of 55 mph will take effect while a bridge is constructed.

“This project shouldn’t impact traffic too much,” said Cotton. “But we will re-direct traffic a bit while we build the bridge, which will mean a jog in the road. The bridge should take about six to eight months, after which the speed limit will return to normal.”

To view a larger map of this and other Douglas County road projects, go to www.douglas.co.us, click on “Quick Links” on the left hand side of the screen and click on “Road Projects.” Click on “Existing and Proposed Roadway Network for North-Central Douglas County.”