COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The City of Colorado Springs will begin improvements on South Academy Boulevard the week of February 20. This work addresses aging pavement, curb and gutter, and improving water drainage along the corridor.
The project, slated for completion in early 2025, will provide a smoother, more comfortable driving surface, reduction or elimination of ponding water on the roadway surface, and improved pedestrian accessibility.
To provide for better multi-model and pedestrian access, a new multi-use path is being constructed on one side of Academy Boulevard. Due to existing drainage issues and occasional occurrences of standing water in the roadway, significant drainage improvements are being made including new manholes, inlets, and new drainage pipe. To avoid conflicts and to upgrade the existing utilities, portions of the Colorado Springs Utilities water and sewer lines are being relocated.
The project boundaries are South Academy Boulevard from Bijou Street to Jet Wing Drive. Construction of the corridor is divided into two different segments over the course of 24 months. Segment one will be along South Academy Boulevard between Bijou Street and Airport Road. Segment two will be along South Academy Boulevard between East Fountain Boulevard and Jet Wing Drive.
Public Open House
Residents can join the City of Colorado Springs and construction teams to discuss the upcoming project on Thursday, Feb. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Sand Creek Library. Residents can review the exhibits and construction schedule. The project team will also be available to answer questions.
This is a voter-approved, Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA) A-listed project. Estimated cost to repair the 18 lane miles of existing asphalt, concrete and storm sewers is $59 million.
This project is believed to be the first major renovation for South Academy Boulevard since opening in 1969. The roadway continues to serve as a key transportation corridor for the southeast area of Colorado Springs. The corridor supports neighborhoods and businesses, while giving travelers key access to Interstate 25 to the south.
More information
Project website: ColoradoSprings.gov/AcademyBlvdImprovements
Project updates: To receive project updates, send your email address to AcademyBlvdImprovements@gmail.com
Project hotline: (719) 427-6422