The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced a speed limit reduction on CO Highway 16 (Mesa Ridge Parkway) in El Paso County. Starting August 4, the speed limit will decrease from 55 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour. The affected section runs from Interstate 25 at Mile Point 0 to the intersection of CO 21 and Mesa Ridge Parkway at Mile Point 3.11 in Fountain.
CDOT officials stated that this decision comes as a response to increased traffic resulting from commercial and residential development along this corridor. According to CDOT analysis, lowering travel speeds is expected to improve safety for all users on this busy stretch.
“Lowering the speed limit on this busy section of highway will enhance safety conditions for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists,” said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Shane Ferguson. “Lowering the speed limit in urban areas is an effective countermeasure to reduce speeds and improve safety for all road users.”
To further promote safety, CDOT has shared reminders for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers. Pedestrians are encouraged to use sidewalks when available, cross at intersections or crosswalks, stay alert without distractions such as phones, avoid walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs, wear light colors at night, and make eye contact with drivers. Bicyclists should ride with traffic flow, obey traffic laws, ride single file where possible, use hand signals, and never ride impaired.
Drivers are reminded to watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists everywhere—especially near schools, parks, shopping areas and transit stops—and always follow posted speed limits. Motorists are also urged to stop before crosswalks rather than in them, never drive while impaired, slow down when approaching crossings or turning into them, reduce speed at night and ensure headlights are on.
A map provided by CDOT highlights the portion of CO Highway 16 in Fountain where these changes take effect beginning August 4.
