The City of Colorado Springs will begin the next phase of the South Academy Boulevard Improvements Project on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The project aims to reconstruct the roadway from East Fountain Boulevard to Jet Wing Drive, address drainage issues, and upgrade utilities.
To prepare for construction, sections of South Academy Boulevard between Astrozon Boulevard and Drennen Road will be fully closed overnight from Sunday through Thursday starting January 18. Crews will remove old lane markings, install temporary ones, and set up concrete barriers during these closures.
According to the city’s announcement, “This project is funded by voters through the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA). It’s the first major rebuilding of South Academy Boulevard since it opened in 1969. The north section was finished in late 2024.”
Closures are scheduled as follows:
– Astrozon Blvd to Hancock Expressway: Jan. 18, Jan. 19, and Jan. 22 from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
– Hancock Expressway to Drennen Rd: Jan. 20 and Jan. 21 from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
– Full corridor (Astrozon Blvd to Drennen Rd): Jan. 25 from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Detour routes will be marked for drivers during these closures:
– When Astrozon to Hancock is closed: use Hancock and Astrozon to return to South Academy.
– When Hancock to Drennen is closed: use Drennen and Astrozon.
– For full corridor closure: use Drennen and Astrozon.
A new lane configuration begins Monday, January 26 at 6 a.m., with traffic shifted east between Hancock and Drennen and west between Hancock and Astrozon; lanes will be reduced in both areas. Slip ramps connecting Hancock Expressway to South Academy Boulevard will also close at that time, requiring drivers to use signalized intersections for right turns.
During construction:
– Two lanes will remain open each way during rush hours.
– The speed limit in the construction zone is set at 35 mph.
– Left turns are allowed where possible.
– Businesses along the route will stay open with signage indicating changes.
– Pedestrian paths and bus stops may move temporarily.
– Night work near driveways may occur.
Drivers are advised to slow down, follow posted signs, watch for workers and equipment, and allow extra travel time.
For more information or updates about the project schedule or detours, residents can visit the official project website at https://coloradosprings.gov/AcademyBlvdImprovements or sign up for text alerts by texting SABImpacts to 844-289-1002.
