The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has completed a key safety upgrade at a notoriously crash‑prone intersection in north Colorado Springs. The work focuses on southbound Highway 83, just north of where the road becomes Interquest Parkway and where North Powers Boulevard (Highway 21) terminates.
What the project added
CDOT installed a second left‑turn lane and a second protected left‑turn signal on southbound Highway 83. When the new signal turns green, northbound traffic on Highway 83 is halted, giving drivers a clear, protected window to turn onto Powers Boulevard. Previously, the turn was permissive – drivers could proceed if the road appeared clear, often leading to confusion and collisions.
Local officials praise the improvement
Gayle Sturdivant, Colorado Springs’ deputy public works director, explained that the intersection has seen “several major traffic crashes” in recent months as drivers attempted the left turn onto Powers. “Before, it was a permissive left turn, and it was just a signaling. If it appeared clear, you could go. Now, they’ve got two lanes, and it’s protected,” Sturdivant said.
Future plans for the interchange
The city is working with CDOT on a longer‑term redesign of the interchange as part of the broader project to extend Powers Boulevard northward to Interstate 25. While the current lane and signal addition addresses immediate safety concerns, officials say the full redesign will further streamline traffic flow and support future growth in the area.
Why this matters for families and the community
North Colorado Springs has experienced rapid residential development, bringing more commuters onto Highway 83 and Powers Boulevard. Safer turning movements reduce the risk of injury for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians – a priority for families who rely on these roads for school runs, work commutes, and everyday errands. By eliminating a dangerous, guess‑work turn, the project aligns with the community’s desire for secure, family‑friendly streets.
Project timeline and cost
The improvement project was completed in the spring of 2026 after several months of construction. CDOT funded the work through its state transportation budget, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to addressing high‑crash locations across Colorado.
Looking ahead
The Road Warrior team at KRDO will continue to monitor the progress of the Powers‑to‑I‑25 extension and report on any additional upgrades that further enhance safety and mobility for Colorado Springs residents.
For motorists traveling south on Highway 83, the new protected left‑turn lane is now operational. Drivers are encouraged to follow the new signal indications and exercise patience as traffic patterns adjust to the improved configuration.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
