Colorado Springs residents should prepare for another traffic disruption on Las Vegas Street, a key shortcut across the city’s south side. Starting Thursday, Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) will close the industrial corridor between Janitell Road and the Highway 85/87 intersection for approximately two months.
Why the closure is needed
CSU is installing a new water main that will run about 2,000 feet from a recently completed line at Circle and Hancock to an existing line near the Circle/Janitell Road intersection. To protect the water line, crews will bore roughly 20 feet beneath Fountain Creek, adding to the utility’s ongoing effort to modernize the city’s water infrastructure.
Impact on drivers
Las Vegas Street is a popular shortcut for commuters and commercial traffic. The closure will force drivers to use alternate routes such as Hancock Expressway, 1st Avenue, or local side streets. CSU notes that a separate wastewater project has already reduced lane capacity west of Janitell to Royer Street, so motorists should expect additional congestion.
Local businesses along the affected stretch may see reduced foot traffic while the road is closed. CSU encourages residents to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow posted detour signs.
What’s next for the project
The water‑line work is the third time this year that CSU has bored under a waterway. Earlier in the summer, crews drilled 30 feet beneath Bear Creek for the 8th Street improvements project. Next month, a separate crew will bore 60 feet under Spring Creek for another water main.
CSU expects to finish the Las Vegas Street water‑line installation before Christmas, weather permitting. Once completed, the new pipe will improve water reliability for the surrounding industrial and residential areas.
Tips for navigating the closure
- Check real‑time traffic apps for updated conditions.
- Use alternate routes such as Hancock Expressway or 1st Avenue.
- Allow extra travel time, especially during peak commuting hours.
- Stay alert for detour signage and construction workers directing traffic.
For more information, residents can contact Colorado Springs Utilities at 719‑555‑1234 or visit the utility’s website.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
