Paving the way for increased roadway safety
By Carin R. Kirkegaard; renderings provided by the City of Castle Pines
The City of Castle Pines will be completing the first phase of a full-depth, half-mile reconstruction of Castle Pines Parkway from Yorkshire Drive to Monarch Boulevard starting in early June.
The project, in partnership with the Castle Pines North Metropolitan District (CPNMD), is just the first major component in the rehabilitation of the city’s two major transportation corridors. (CPNMD is putting in a new 12” water line as part of the Parker Inclusion (see related story page 3).
Project improvements for better mobility and safety include:
- Reconstructing the stretch of roadway by replacing crumbling infrastructure with a new asphalt roadway.
- Removing and replacing aging curbs and gutters.
- Installing 6-foot bicycle lanes in both directions.
- Rebuilding the existing sidewalk on the north side of the parkway and installing a new, detached 6-foot sidewalk.
- Constructing all new ADA pedestrian curb ramps, providing better access for people with disabilities.
Reconstruction of Castle Pines Parkway from Yorkshire Drive to Monarch Boulevard will begin this month.
Among those most excited about the roadway project is Castle Pines Cycling Club founder Mark Massey.
“As riders, we know there is no ‘right or wrong’ regarding a collision with a vehicle. The rider is always on the wrong side of a vehicle collision, no matter if they were on the right side of the traffic laws,” he stated.
Potholes, road seams, gravel, etc., can create situations where cyclists are thrown off balance, experience flat tires and/or other equipment damage. Massey attributes poor road conditions as the greatest contributor to bike crashes.
“Therefore, we were thrilled to hear the news of the bike lanes on Castle Pines Parkway. With the increase in safety, families and less experienced riders will be able to embrace the joys of cycling and living in our vibrant outdoor community that is Castle Pines.”
To learn more about the roadway reconstruction project, visit www.castlepinesco.gov/cpprecon.
