West Colfax Transportation Safety Project

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Consultation on this project has concluded. Please visit the construction website for updates, information and to ask questions.

New Construction Updates as of June 3, 2025

Click the icon below to be directed to the project website for more details.


December 2024 Update

Important safety improvements are coming to West Colfax Avenue between Sheridan and Wadsworth boulevards! Starting in early 2025, construction is expected to begin on continuous medians from Sheridan to Teller Street — an important step toward making Colfax safer for pedestrians, motorists, and transit users alike. Watch the video below for some more information about this project.


August 2024 Update

In mid-August, Phase 1 was put out to bid, construction contractors are now able to review the final plans and submit a bid for construction. Construction is anticipated to begin in November.

Project Information

To efficiently construct the project, a two phased approach for project design completion and construction is being implemented. Phase 1 includes construction of the Colfax Avenue medians and associated elements. Phase 2 includes construction of the curbside and street edge treatment.

Phase 1:

This project phase includes final design, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) approvals and environmental clearances, and construction of the West Colfax median improvements. Project elements include a more continuous center median, roadway lighting, utility design and coordination, landscaping, irrigation system, and pedestrian "Z" crossings mid-block between signalized intersections. The Z crossings will create designated areas for pedestrians to cross Colfax and make those crossings more predictable for motorists while providing greater protection for pedestrians.

Phase 2:

This project phase will include final design, CDOT approvals and environmental clearances, and construction. Project elements associated with this phase include curbside improvements focused on repurposing the outside traffic lane for pedestrian use from Sheridan Boulevard to Teller Street. This phase will also include installing continuous sidewalks along this segment of the street. Other improvements will include access management, a new traffic signal and pedestrian hybrid beacons at Z-crossings, utility design, new bus lane pullouts, pedestrian lighting, a pedestrian detection system, storm water system improvements, landscaping, placemaking elements, and public art.

Project Background

The West Colfax Transportation Safety Project is an opportunity to create a safer and more comfortable experience for pedestrians, transit users, and motorists along the iconic West Colfax Avenue in Lakewood, between Sheridan boulevard and Teller street. This segment of West Colfax has the highest concentration of traffic injuries and deaths in Lakewood; in a five-year period ending in 2019, there were six deaths, with multiple additional deaths since that study period.

Lakewood initiated efforts in 2017 to better understand safety issues along the corridor. In December 2020, Lakewood was awarded a $10 million grant from Colorado’s Safer Main Streets Initiative with support of a Lakewood City Council approved $2.5 million local match to advance the design and construction of improvements along West Colfax. This project, in fact, received the largest amount awarded under the program.

In mid-2021 Lakewood sought feedback from residents, business owners, transit users, and all who travel this section of West Colfax Avenue to help shape the future vision for the corridor and identify needed safety improvements. Community input clearly identified the three top priorities of improving safety, creating a vibrant community asset that incorporates art, and minimizing impacts during construction.

In December 2021 the detailed design phase began. The final design will seek to repurpose an underutilized travel lane to provide safe sidewalks comfortable for anyone regardless of physical abilities, to guide pedestrians to specially designated safe road crossings, to decrease the number of vehicle access points to Colfax in order to minimize conflict along the corridor, to improve roadway and pedestrian lighting, and to implement a pedestrian entry warning system that will be developed specifically for West Colfax to warn drivers of jaywalking pedestrians.

Public Participation Process

The community and stakeholders will continue to be involved to help us create a safer and more comfortable experience for pedestrians, transit users, and motorists on Colfax between Sheridan and Teller Street.

On August 22, 2024 the project team hosted an open-house at The HUB Building at 40 West Arts. The open house provided business owners and community members the opportunity to meet with the project team and have their questions answered.

Attendees reviewed the final design for Phase 1 of West Colfax from Sheridan boulevard to Teller street and learn more about the project schedule including the anticipated construction start for Phase I. Displays include project plan drawings showing the Artline and standard segment typical designs and roadway cross sections.



Past Events

  • On August 2, 2024 the project team attended First Friday Art Walk to provide the community with a project update and alert them to how best to day information during construction by utilizing the construction specific website www.westcolfaxsafety.com.
  • On August 1, 2024 the project team walked the project corridor and talked to each business. Business owners could ask question of the team and were encouraged to attend the upcoming open-house meeting where detailed information would be provided.
  • On June 23, 2022, a second artist workshop was held. Participates were members of the Equity in the Arts Committee and the event focused on identifying ways the future corridor design can represent the diversity of communities that live on or near the project corridor. With a total of over 800 selections by residents and stakeholders the project team has heard your priorities of how art should be incorporated into the project. The visual preference summary document highlights what we heard from residents and stakeholders. The artist workshop summary provide a summary of what we heard from participants.
  • Virtual office hours were held on June 15 and 20, 2022. All businesses along the corridor were invited to attend and speak directly with project team members. A Spanish speaking project team member attended on both days for those who preferred to speak Spanish.
  • On June 7, 2022, the project team walked the project corridor and spoke to each business along West Colfax between Sheridan boulevard and Teller street. Each business was provided a postcard, in English and Spanish, that provided high-level project information and encouraged them to attend virtual office hours to ask specific questions.
  • During the week of May 23, 2022, the project team held a series of four property owner and business owner meetings. Each meet was hybrid, with the option to attend in-person or via zoom, and the same content was presented at each meeting. The presentation included information about each design element intended to help achieve the project goal of improving safety for vehicles, pedestrians, and transit users.
  • On May 6, 2022, the project team joined 40 West for the First Friday Art Walk. Community members were able to speak with the project team, ask questions, and provide input about art along the project corridor.
  • On May 18, 2022, the project team presented at the Ward 2 Councilor Meeting. The team provide a project update and answered questions from attendees.
  • During the late-afternoon of April 26, 2022, the project team set up a pop-up event at the Lamar Station. The pop-up event sought to get feedback from transit users and local community members using the paved multi-use path.
  • On April 15, 2022, the project team attended the Benefits In Action cleanup day along the West Colfax corridor. The team presented about the project and got feedback from the approximately 60 students from McLain High School.
  • On March 31, 2022, a group of approximately 20 artists joined the project team to brainstorm how art can be incorporated along the project corridor to improve safety. The artists gathered around project maps to discuss, collaborate, draw, and present ideas. A summary of the event can be found under important documents.
  • On March 9, 2022, the West Colfax Transportation Safety project team attended the 40 West Summit hosted at WestFax Brewing. Hosted by 40 West Arts, the summit is an annual event for the community to network and provide the district feedback about goals, their mission, initiatives, and more for 2022. It was also an opportunity for the community to provide initial opinions about how artwork can be incorporated along the project corridor to improve safety. The project team was also available to answer questions about the project. A summary of the feedback received can be found under important documents.

Safety data

Data and planning efforts demonstrate that it is imperative to improve the safety for everyone walking, using transit and driving along West Colfax.

    • 75% of survey respondents felt unsafe walking on Colfax and 33% of respondents felt unsafe driving on Colfax.
    • West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city, resulting in a significant number of pedestrian fatalities. Lakewood Transportation Engineering identified 820 total crashes in this 1.5 mile segment from January 2015 to December 2019. These crashes have caused 283 serious injuries and six fatalities.
    • Ninety-eight of the crashes involved a pedestrian or cyclist. Of the 98 crashes, 74 resulted in serious injuries and five resulted in death. These statistics indicate that a crash occurred every other day in the project area.
    • The Lakewood Police Department has identified West Colfax as a high priority area for addressing pedestrian safety.
    • The West Colfax Vision 2040 Action Plan, developed in consultation with the community, contains goals for West Colfax Avenue over the next 20 years. These goals include exploring ways to build attractive and safe pedestrian infrastructure along West Colfax and identifying critical pedestrian connections and crossings as well as intersection improvements. The 40 West Arts District Urban Design and Mobility Concepts also addressed these needs.

Project components

This project will create consistent sidewalks through repurposing the outside lanes of traffic; add designated pedestrian crossings in specific locations; establish pullouts for buses and provide bus stop amenities; improve street lighting for safety; and enhance driver safety by increasing sight-distances, reducing conflicts with turning vehicles, updating intersection traffic signals and lengthening turn lanes – all of which will improve safety for everyone while reducing driving stress.

Working with partners

In addition to working with CDOT, the city's key partners on the project include the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District, the Regional Transportation District, the organizations that supported the Safe Main Streets grant application, businesses and community members.

Lakewood is providing matching funds for the project, creating the opportunity to build a safer and better functioning West Colfax that will also be an asset to the community and local businesses.

Project area

The project area includes West Colfax from Sheridan to Teller Street. This segment is home to a wealth of commercial, transit, art and cultural destinations in Lakewood.

Consultation on this project has concluded. Please visit the construction website for updates, information and to ask questions.

New Construction Updates as of June 3, 2025

Click the icon below to be directed to the project website for more details.


December 2024 Update

Important safety improvements are coming to West Colfax Avenue between Sheridan and Wadsworth boulevards! Starting in early 2025, construction is expected to begin on continuous medians from Sheridan to Teller Street — an important step toward making Colfax safer for pedestrians, motorists, and transit users alike. Watch the video below for some more information about this project.


August 2024 Update

In mid-August, Phase 1 was put out to bid, construction contractors are now able to review the final plans and submit a bid for construction. Construction is anticipated to begin in November.

Project Information

To efficiently construct the project, a two phased approach for project design completion and construction is being implemented. Phase 1 includes construction of the Colfax Avenue medians and associated elements. Phase 2 includes construction of the curbside and street edge treatment.

Phase 1:

This project phase includes final design, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) approvals and environmental clearances, and construction of the West Colfax median improvements. Project elements include a more continuous center median, roadway lighting, utility design and coordination, landscaping, irrigation system, and pedestrian "Z" crossings mid-block between signalized intersections. The Z crossings will create designated areas for pedestrians to cross Colfax and make those crossings more predictable for motorists while providing greater protection for pedestrians.

Phase 2:

This project phase will include final design, CDOT approvals and environmental clearances, and construction. Project elements associated with this phase include curbside improvements focused on repurposing the outside traffic lane for pedestrian use from Sheridan Boulevard to Teller Street. This phase will also include installing continuous sidewalks along this segment of the street. Other improvements will include access management, a new traffic signal and pedestrian hybrid beacons at Z-crossings, utility design, new bus lane pullouts, pedestrian lighting, a pedestrian detection system, storm water system improvements, landscaping, placemaking elements, and public art.

Project Background

The West Colfax Transportation Safety Project is an opportunity to create a safer and more comfortable experience for pedestrians, transit users, and motorists along the iconic West Colfax Avenue in Lakewood, between Sheridan boulevard and Teller street. This segment of West Colfax has the highest concentration of traffic injuries and deaths in Lakewood; in a five-year period ending in 2019, there were six deaths, with multiple additional deaths since that study period.

Lakewood initiated efforts in 2017 to better understand safety issues along the corridor. In December 2020, Lakewood was awarded a $10 million grant from Colorado’s Safer Main Streets Initiative with support of a Lakewood City Council approved $2.5 million local match to advance the design and construction of improvements along West Colfax. This project, in fact, received the largest amount awarded under the program.

In mid-2021 Lakewood sought feedback from residents, business owners, transit users, and all who travel this section of West Colfax Avenue to help shape the future vision for the corridor and identify needed safety improvements. Community input clearly identified the three top priorities of improving safety, creating a vibrant community asset that incorporates art, and minimizing impacts during construction.

In December 2021 the detailed design phase began. The final design will seek to repurpose an underutilized travel lane to provide safe sidewalks comfortable for anyone regardless of physical abilities, to guide pedestrians to specially designated safe road crossings, to decrease the number of vehicle access points to Colfax in order to minimize conflict along the corridor, to improve roadway and pedestrian lighting, and to implement a pedestrian entry warning system that will be developed specifically for West Colfax to warn drivers of jaywalking pedestrians.

Public Participation Process

The community and stakeholders will continue to be involved to help us create a safer and more comfortable experience for pedestrians, transit users, and motorists on Colfax between Sheridan and Teller Street.

On August 22, 2024 the project team hosted an open-house at The HUB Building at 40 West Arts. The open house provided business owners and community members the opportunity to meet with the project team and have their questions answered.

Attendees reviewed the final design for Phase 1 of West Colfax from Sheridan boulevard to Teller street and learn more about the project schedule including the anticipated construction start for Phase I. Displays include project plan drawings showing the Artline and standard segment typical designs and roadway cross sections.



Past Events

  • On August 2, 2024 the project team attended First Friday Art Walk to provide the community with a project update and alert them to how best to day information during construction by utilizing the construction specific website www.westcolfaxsafety.com.
  • On August 1, 2024 the project team walked the project corridor and talked to each business. Business owners could ask question of the team and were encouraged to attend the upcoming open-house meeting where detailed information would be provided.
  • On June 23, 2022, a second artist workshop was held. Participates were members of the Equity in the Arts Committee and the event focused on identifying ways the future corridor design can represent the diversity of communities that live on or near the project corridor. With a total of over 800 selections by residents and stakeholders the project team has heard your priorities of how art should be incorporated into the project. The visual preference summary document highlights what we heard from residents and stakeholders. The artist workshop summary provide a summary of what we heard from participants.
  • Virtual office hours were held on June 15 and 20, 2022. All businesses along the corridor were invited to attend and speak directly with project team members. A Spanish speaking project team member attended on both days for those who preferred to speak Spanish.
  • On June 7, 2022, the project team walked the project corridor and spoke to each business along West Colfax between Sheridan boulevard and Teller street. Each business was provided a postcard, in English and Spanish, that provided high-level project information and encouraged them to attend virtual office hours to ask specific questions.
  • During the week of May 23, 2022, the project team held a series of four property owner and business owner meetings. Each meet was hybrid, with the option to attend in-person or via zoom, and the same content was presented at each meeting. The presentation included information about each design element intended to help achieve the project goal of improving safety for vehicles, pedestrians, and transit users.
  • On May 6, 2022, the project team joined 40 West for the First Friday Art Walk. Community members were able to speak with the project team, ask questions, and provide input about art along the project corridor.
  • On May 18, 2022, the project team presented at the Ward 2 Councilor Meeting. The team provide a project update and answered questions from attendees.
  • During the late-afternoon of April 26, 2022, the project team set up a pop-up event at the Lamar Station. The pop-up event sought to get feedback from transit users and local community members using the paved multi-use path.
  • On April 15, 2022, the project team attended the Benefits In Action cleanup day along the West Colfax corridor. The team presented about the project and got feedback from the approximately 60 students from McLain High School.
  • On March 31, 2022, a group of approximately 20 artists joined the project team to brainstorm how art can be incorporated along the project corridor to improve safety. The artists gathered around project maps to discuss, collaborate, draw, and present ideas. A summary of the event can be found under important documents.
  • On March 9, 2022, the West Colfax Transportation Safety project team attended the 40 West Summit hosted at WestFax Brewing. Hosted by 40 West Arts, the summit is an annual event for the community to network and provide the district feedback about goals, their mission, initiatives, and more for 2022. It was also an opportunity for the community to provide initial opinions about how artwork can be incorporated along the project corridor to improve safety. The project team was also available to answer questions about the project. A summary of the feedback received can be found under important documents.

Safety data

Data and planning efforts demonstrate that it is imperative to improve the safety for everyone walking, using transit and driving along West Colfax.

    • 75% of survey respondents felt unsafe walking on Colfax and 33% of respondents felt unsafe driving on Colfax.
    • West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city, resulting in a significant number of pedestrian fatalities. Lakewood Transportation Engineering identified 820 total crashes in this 1.5 mile segment from January 2015 to December 2019. These crashes have caused 283 serious injuries and six fatalities.
    • Ninety-eight of the crashes involved a pedestrian or cyclist. Of the 98 crashes, 74 resulted in serious injuries and five resulted in death. These statistics indicate that a crash occurred every other day in the project area.
    • The Lakewood Police Department has identified West Colfax as a high priority area for addressing pedestrian safety.
    • The West Colfax Vision 2040 Action Plan, developed in consultation with the community, contains goals for West Colfax Avenue over the next 20 years. These goals include exploring ways to build attractive and safe pedestrian infrastructure along West Colfax and identifying critical pedestrian connections and crossings as well as intersection improvements. The 40 West Arts District Urban Design and Mobility Concepts also addressed these needs.

Project components

This project will create consistent sidewalks through repurposing the outside lanes of traffic; add designated pedestrian crossings in specific locations; establish pullouts for buses and provide bus stop amenities; improve street lighting for safety; and enhance driver safety by increasing sight-distances, reducing conflicts with turning vehicles, updating intersection traffic signals and lengthening turn lanes – all of which will improve safety for everyone while reducing driving stress.

Working with partners

In addition to working with CDOT, the city's key partners on the project include the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District, the Regional Transportation District, the organizations that supported the Safe Main Streets grant application, businesses and community members.

Lakewood is providing matching funds for the project, creating the opportunity to build a safer and better functioning West Colfax that will also be an asset to the community and local businesses.

Project area

The project area includes West Colfax from Sheridan to Teller Street. This segment is home to a wealth of commercial, transit, art and cultural destinations in Lakewood.

CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

Consultation on this project has concluded. Please visit the construction website for updates, information and to ask questions.

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For general questions and concerns about the city, please visit www.Lakewood.org/RequestLakewood(External link), which is the city's online customer service hub available 24 hours a day. 


  • Share Hi, I was wondering if there would be any road construction in the near future on Wadsworth and 13th? Right next to the rail station? I manage an apartment complex right next door and would like to prepare my tenants if so. on Facebook Share Hi, I was wondering if there would be any road construction in the near future on Wadsworth and 13th? Right next to the rail station? I manage an apartment complex right next door and would like to prepare my tenants if so. on Twitter Share Hi, I was wondering if there would be any road construction in the near future on Wadsworth and 13th? Right next to the rail station? I manage an apartment complex right next door and would like to prepare my tenants if so. on Linkedin Email Hi, I was wondering if there would be any road construction in the near future on Wadsworth and 13th? Right next to the rail station? I manage an apartment complex right next door and would like to prepare my tenants if so. link

    Hi, I was wondering if there would be any road construction in the near future on Wadsworth and 13th? Right next to the rail station? I manage an apartment complex right next door and would like to prepare my tenants if so.

    Becca asked 3 months ago

    Becca -- There won't be any road construction from this project at Wadsworth Boulevard and West 13th Avenue because the West Colfax Transportation Safety Project is only along West Colfax from Teller Street to Sheridan Boulevard. I'm trying to find out if there is any other project that would affect your complex, and I'll answer you here if I learn of any construction in this area.

    Sincerely,

    Stacie Oulton

  • Share What are the specific (who, when, why) causes of the traffic/pedestrian issues/injuries/fatalities on the w Colfax corridor between Teller and Sheridan, as determined by Lakewood police department, coroner’s office and epidemiologists/sociologists/anthropologists? When and where have you conducted qualitative/in person interviews with people experiencing homelessness who frequent that part of W Colfax, and what were their recommendations/results? Are you incorporating their recommendations/results into the design? From photos, you have included input from businesses but not from the affected/INJURED community. What resulting “training” are you providing the most affected INJURED community so they can cross Colfax more safely and not get injured, instead of jumping over all those new barriers? on Facebook Share What are the specific (who, when, why) causes of the traffic/pedestrian issues/injuries/fatalities on the w Colfax corridor between Teller and Sheridan, as determined by Lakewood police department, coroner’s office and epidemiologists/sociologists/anthropologists? When and where have you conducted qualitative/in person interviews with people experiencing homelessness who frequent that part of W Colfax, and what were their recommendations/results? Are you incorporating their recommendations/results into the design? From photos, you have included input from businesses but not from the affected/INJURED community. What resulting “training” are you providing the most affected INJURED community so they can cross Colfax more safely and not get injured, instead of jumping over all those new barriers? on Twitter Share What are the specific (who, when, why) causes of the traffic/pedestrian issues/injuries/fatalities on the w Colfax corridor between Teller and Sheridan, as determined by Lakewood police department, coroner’s office and epidemiologists/sociologists/anthropologists? When and where have you conducted qualitative/in person interviews with people experiencing homelessness who frequent that part of W Colfax, and what were their recommendations/results? Are you incorporating their recommendations/results into the design? From photos, you have included input from businesses but not from the affected/INJURED community. What resulting “training” are you providing the most affected INJURED community so they can cross Colfax more safely and not get injured, instead of jumping over all those new barriers? on Linkedin Email What are the specific (who, when, why) causes of the traffic/pedestrian issues/injuries/fatalities on the w Colfax corridor between Teller and Sheridan, as determined by Lakewood police department, coroner’s office and epidemiologists/sociologists/anthropologists? When and where have you conducted qualitative/in person interviews with people experiencing homelessness who frequent that part of W Colfax, and what were their recommendations/results? Are you incorporating their recommendations/results into the design? From photos, you have included input from businesses but not from the affected/INJURED community. What resulting “training” are you providing the most affected INJURED community so they can cross Colfax more safely and not get injured, instead of jumping over all those new barriers? link

    What are the specific (who, when, why) causes of the traffic/pedestrian issues/injuries/fatalities on the w Colfax corridor between Teller and Sheridan, as determined by Lakewood police department, coroner’s office and epidemiologists/sociologists/anthropologists? When and where have you conducted qualitative/in person interviews with people experiencing homelessness who frequent that part of W Colfax, and what were their recommendations/results? Are you incorporating their recommendations/results into the design? From photos, you have included input from businesses but not from the affected/INJURED community. What resulting “training” are you providing the most affected INJURED community so they can cross Colfax more safely and not get injured, instead of jumping over all those new barriers?

    NSJH asked 9 months ago

    Thank you for your interest in this project. Regarding your questions, extensive analysis of Lakewood Police Department data was utilized in obtaining the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) grant to fund the project. The Lakewood Police Department has identified West Colfax as a high priority area for addressing pedestrian safety, especially the segment between Sheridan and Wadsworth boulevards.

    West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city, resulting in a significant number of pedestrian fatalities. Lakewood's Transportation Engineering Division identified 820 total crashes in this 1.5-mile segment from January 2015 to December 2019. These crashes have caused 283 serious injuries and six fatalities.

    Ninety-eight of the crashes involved a pedestrian or cyclist. Of the 98 crashes, 74 resulted in serious injuries and five resulted in death. These statistics indicate that a crash occurred every other day in the project area. A significant cause of pedestrian injuries and fatalities is the result of pedestrians crossing mid-block and not at signalized locations. The project will be including mid-block pedestrian crossings to reduce the distance between signalized intersections for pedestrians to cross Colfax. Barriers to be constructed are to limit and discourage non-signalized crossings and to direct pedestrians to cross at signalized intersections and delineated pedestrian crossing locations. This means pedestrians will be crossing where motorists expect it, which increases safety for both the pedestrian and the motorists.

    Public input has included participation from all segments of the community including neighborhood residents, business owners, and interested residents.. A specific workshop was conducted to include residents who are visually impaired, developmentally disabled, and those who are unhoused to obtain their input. This workshop resulted in adjustments to the project design.

    The project is not expected to be fully completed until 2026. Training users before that time is an excellent idea and will be part of the implementation process.

    Best regards,

    The Project Team


  • Share Dear Sir or Ma'am, I found an article today in the Looking At Lakewood newspaper about the West Colfax improvement project. While the idea is important, The article states the project is a critical step for 1) Motorists. 2 pedestrians. 3 Transit users. Why do projects such as this always prioritize cars, and leave pedestrians and transit for last? This country must have a culture shift away from the automobile. They are a social and environmental nightmare, and cause of many of the problems we face today. Car drivers today drive these massive vehicles, and they drive far too fast. I live a block south of Colfax on W 14 Avenue, and sometimes Colfax sounds like a racetrack. What are we doing about it? Looking at long term growth for the Denver metro area including Lakewood, does your organization have contact with RTD regarding this project? At one time in this city, there was an electric street car system and an electric interurban commuter train. Is there any plan at all to install a street car system to reduce the amount of cars on the road? RTD failed with the downtown mall in this regard. They had the opportunity to install a street car using the same light rail equipment they have now, and failed to do so, instead building a whole new street. Dumb. RTD has an opportunity to look ahead and install passenger rail on Colfax Avenue. Because it was there before cars were popular. Here is an East West street with only three turns in the downtown area. They can build a street car line running the entire length of Colfax from Golden to Aurora which would benefit the entire city. And such a system can be built with walkways and shops such as the design suggests. That is, unless RTD lack the leadership and foresight to build such a project. If so, perhaps they should be replaced with people who do. Nearly the entire length of Colfax Avenue looks like a slum in a third world country. Much of it in Lakewood is deeply depressing, and something must be done about it. Beyond this design, how does the city plan to improve this important part of the city? Best regards, Jeffrey Harkness Lakewood, Colorado. on Facebook Share Dear Sir or Ma'am, I found an article today in the Looking At Lakewood newspaper about the West Colfax improvement project. While the idea is important, The article states the project is a critical step for 1) Motorists. 2 pedestrians. 3 Transit users. Why do projects such as this always prioritize cars, and leave pedestrians and transit for last? This country must have a culture shift away from the automobile. They are a social and environmental nightmare, and cause of many of the problems we face today. Car drivers today drive these massive vehicles, and they drive far too fast. I live a block south of Colfax on W 14 Avenue, and sometimes Colfax sounds like a racetrack. What are we doing about it? Looking at long term growth for the Denver metro area including Lakewood, does your organization have contact with RTD regarding this project? At one time in this city, there was an electric street car system and an electric interurban commuter train. Is there any plan at all to install a street car system to reduce the amount of cars on the road? RTD failed with the downtown mall in this regard. They had the opportunity to install a street car using the same light rail equipment they have now, and failed to do so, instead building a whole new street. Dumb. RTD has an opportunity to look ahead and install passenger rail on Colfax Avenue. Because it was there before cars were popular. Here is an East West street with only three turns in the downtown area. They can build a street car line running the entire length of Colfax from Golden to Aurora which would benefit the entire city. And such a system can be built with walkways and shops such as the design suggests. That is, unless RTD lack the leadership and foresight to build such a project. If so, perhaps they should be replaced with people who do. Nearly the entire length of Colfax Avenue looks like a slum in a third world country. Much of it in Lakewood is deeply depressing, and something must be done about it. Beyond this design, how does the city plan to improve this important part of the city? Best regards, Jeffrey Harkness Lakewood, Colorado. on Twitter Share Dear Sir or Ma'am, I found an article today in the Looking At Lakewood newspaper about the West Colfax improvement project. While the idea is important, The article states the project is a critical step for 1) Motorists. 2 pedestrians. 3 Transit users. Why do projects such as this always prioritize cars, and leave pedestrians and transit for last? This country must have a culture shift away from the automobile. They are a social and environmental nightmare, and cause of many of the problems we face today. Car drivers today drive these massive vehicles, and they drive far too fast. I live a block south of Colfax on W 14 Avenue, and sometimes Colfax sounds like a racetrack. What are we doing about it? Looking at long term growth for the Denver metro area including Lakewood, does your organization have contact with RTD regarding this project? At one time in this city, there was an electric street car system and an electric interurban commuter train. Is there any plan at all to install a street car system to reduce the amount of cars on the road? RTD failed with the downtown mall in this regard. They had the opportunity to install a street car using the same light rail equipment they have now, and failed to do so, instead building a whole new street. Dumb. RTD has an opportunity to look ahead and install passenger rail on Colfax Avenue. Because it was there before cars were popular. Here is an East West street with only three turns in the downtown area. They can build a street car line running the entire length of Colfax from Golden to Aurora which would benefit the entire city. And such a system can be built with walkways and shops such as the design suggests. That is, unless RTD lack the leadership and foresight to build such a project. If so, perhaps they should be replaced with people who do. Nearly the entire length of Colfax Avenue looks like a slum in a third world country. Much of it in Lakewood is deeply depressing, and something must be done about it. Beyond this design, how does the city plan to improve this important part of the city? Best regards, Jeffrey Harkness Lakewood, Colorado. on Linkedin Email Dear Sir or Ma'am, I found an article today in the Looking At Lakewood newspaper about the West Colfax improvement project. While the idea is important, The article states the project is a critical step for 1) Motorists. 2 pedestrians. 3 Transit users. Why do projects such as this always prioritize cars, and leave pedestrians and transit for last? This country must have a culture shift away from the automobile. They are a social and environmental nightmare, and cause of many of the problems we face today. Car drivers today drive these massive vehicles, and they drive far too fast. I live a block south of Colfax on W 14 Avenue, and sometimes Colfax sounds like a racetrack. What are we doing about it? Looking at long term growth for the Denver metro area including Lakewood, does your organization have contact with RTD regarding this project? At one time in this city, there was an electric street car system and an electric interurban commuter train. Is there any plan at all to install a street car system to reduce the amount of cars on the road? RTD failed with the downtown mall in this regard. They had the opportunity to install a street car using the same light rail equipment they have now, and failed to do so, instead building a whole new street. Dumb. RTD has an opportunity to look ahead and install passenger rail on Colfax Avenue. Because it was there before cars were popular. Here is an East West street with only three turns in the downtown area. They can build a street car line running the entire length of Colfax from Golden to Aurora which would benefit the entire city. And such a system can be built with walkways and shops such as the design suggests. That is, unless RTD lack the leadership and foresight to build such a project. If so, perhaps they should be replaced with people who do. Nearly the entire length of Colfax Avenue looks like a slum in a third world country. Much of it in Lakewood is deeply depressing, and something must be done about it. Beyond this design, how does the city plan to improve this important part of the city? Best regards, Jeffrey Harkness Lakewood, Colorado. link

    Dear Sir or Ma'am, I found an article today in the Looking At Lakewood newspaper about the West Colfax improvement project. While the idea is important, The article states the project is a critical step for 1) Motorists. 2 pedestrians. 3 Transit users. Why do projects such as this always prioritize cars, and leave pedestrians and transit for last? This country must have a culture shift away from the automobile. They are a social and environmental nightmare, and cause of many of the problems we face today. Car drivers today drive these massive vehicles, and they drive far too fast. I live a block south of Colfax on W 14 Avenue, and sometimes Colfax sounds like a racetrack. What are we doing about it? Looking at long term growth for the Denver metro area including Lakewood, does your organization have contact with RTD regarding this project? At one time in this city, there was an electric street car system and an electric interurban commuter train. Is there any plan at all to install a street car system to reduce the amount of cars on the road? RTD failed with the downtown mall in this regard. They had the opportunity to install a street car using the same light rail equipment they have now, and failed to do so, instead building a whole new street. Dumb. RTD has an opportunity to look ahead and install passenger rail on Colfax Avenue. Because it was there before cars were popular. Here is an East West street with only three turns in the downtown area. They can build a street car line running the entire length of Colfax from Golden to Aurora which would benefit the entire city. And such a system can be built with walkways and shops such as the design suggests. That is, unless RTD lack the leadership and foresight to build such a project. If so, perhaps they should be replaced with people who do. Nearly the entire length of Colfax Avenue looks like a slum in a third world country. Much of it in Lakewood is deeply depressing, and something must be done about it. Beyond this design, how does the city plan to improve this important part of the city? Best regards, Jeffrey Harkness Lakewood, Colorado.

    Jeffrey Harkness asked 10 months ago

    Jeffrey -- Thank you for your interest in this project. Here's information we think addresses your comments and concerns:

    Although motorists were listed first in the article, pedestrian safety has been the driving force for the West Colfax Transportation Safety Project due to the high number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities in this segment of West Colfax Avenue. Barriers to be installed along the curb line and mid-block pedestrian crossings with pedestrian only signals are key elements of the project to direct pedestrians to safer locations to cross Colfax. Bus pull-outs are included as part of the project as well. The project team is working with the 40 West Art District and the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District to locate public art along sidewalks and develop upgraded bus shelters to enhance the project area for pedestrian and other users.

    When RTD was planning the W light rail line from downtown Denver to Golden, the Colfax corridor was evaluated as one alternative prior to the West 13th Avenue corridor being selected as the route for the RTD W line. 

    The City of Lakewood also continues to work with the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District and local businesses to revitalize the corridor. The West Colfax Vision 2040 Plan addresses this revitalization. 

    Sincerely,

    The Project Team

  • Share Hi, What are the plans for the two empty lots on 5900 & 5991 W. Colfax & N Harlan? on Facebook Share Hi, What are the plans for the two empty lots on 5900 & 5991 W. Colfax & N Harlan? on Twitter Share Hi, What are the plans for the two empty lots on 5900 & 5991 W. Colfax & N Harlan? on Linkedin Email Hi, What are the plans for the two empty lots on 5900 & 5991 W. Colfax & N Harlan? link

    Hi, What are the plans for the two empty lots on 5900 & 5991 W. Colfax & N Harlan?

    Toni asked 11 months ago

    Hello, 

    The property at 5900 W Colfax Ave. is currently vacant but the property at 5991 W Colfax Ave. is under construction for a 7/11 gas station and Laredo Taco. If you have any questions related to the development proposals, please reach out to the Planner of the Day at 303-987-7571 or POD@lakewood.org. Information on all development proposals can be found online using our Development Highlights Map.  

    Project Team

  • Share What time and where is the Open House on August 22nd? on Facebook Share What time and where is the Open House on August 22nd? on Twitter Share What time and where is the Open House on August 22nd? on Linkedin Email What time and where is the Open House on August 22nd? link

    What time and where is the Open House on August 22nd?

    VICKI asked 11 months ago

    Vicki -- Thanks for your interest in the project. Here are the details for the open house, which is shown on the website in the upper right corner under "Upcoming Community Engagement Events."

    Open House Public Meeting

    Open House meeting will be from 4- 6 p.m. 

    The HUB Building at 40 West Arts

    6501 W. Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214

    The project team will be available to answer project questions. Displays will include:  updated design for Phase I and II, exhibits showing fencing and landscaping, updated schedule, and cross sections/roll plots.  

    Sincerely,
    The Project Team

  • Share Why is this taking so long to begin? What's the hold up . . . this project was slated to begin a year ago -- please give an answer at the WCCA meeting on May 15th. Thank you! on Facebook Share Why is this taking so long to begin? What's the hold up . . . this project was slated to begin a year ago -- please give an answer at the WCCA meeting on May 15th. Thank you! on Twitter Share Why is this taking so long to begin? What's the hold up . . . this project was slated to begin a year ago -- please give an answer at the WCCA meeting on May 15th. Thank you! on Linkedin Email Why is this taking so long to begin? What's the hold up . . . this project was slated to begin a year ago -- please give an answer at the WCCA meeting on May 15th. Thank you! link

    Why is this taking so long to begin? What's the hold up . . . this project was slated to begin a year ago -- please give an answer at the WCCA meeting on May 15th. Thank you!

    Jolly asked about 1 year ago

    Thanks for sending in your question, and I'm waiting to get information from the project team. When I get that, I'll provide you that information.

    -- Stacie Oulton
    Public Information Manager

    Sorry again for the delay in this response, but the project manager was out of town. If you attended the West Colfax Community Association meeting, you probably heard this information already. Some of the delay in getting construction started has stemmed from waiting for approvals from the Colorado Department of Transportation. The current schedule is shown below:

    • Phase 1 of the project includes construction of much more continuous landscape medians for safety purposes.
      • June/July 2024: Approval for advertisement. 
      • August 2024: Advertisement and contractor selection.
      • Six-eighth months: Construction period.


    Sincerely,

    Stacie Oulton

  • Share Hi, I'm a bit confused by the document because the focus and the plans are for the stretch of Colfax between Sheridan and Teller St., but then the document includes alarming statistics of accidents and fatalities of the section of Colfax between Sheridan and Wadsworth, and states, "West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city..." Are there plans to continue the collision mitigations and increase in safety for everyone on Colfax on the stretch from Sheridan to Wadsworth? on Facebook Share Hi, I'm a bit confused by the document because the focus and the plans are for the stretch of Colfax between Sheridan and Teller St., but then the document includes alarming statistics of accidents and fatalities of the section of Colfax between Sheridan and Wadsworth, and states, "West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city..." Are there plans to continue the collision mitigations and increase in safety for everyone on Colfax on the stretch from Sheridan to Wadsworth? on Twitter Share Hi, I'm a bit confused by the document because the focus and the plans are for the stretch of Colfax between Sheridan and Teller St., but then the document includes alarming statistics of accidents and fatalities of the section of Colfax between Sheridan and Wadsworth, and states, "West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city..." Are there plans to continue the collision mitigations and increase in safety for everyone on Colfax on the stretch from Sheridan to Wadsworth? on Linkedin Email Hi, I'm a bit confused by the document because the focus and the plans are for the stretch of Colfax between Sheridan and Teller St., but then the document includes alarming statistics of accidents and fatalities of the section of Colfax between Sheridan and Wadsworth, and states, "West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city..." Are there plans to continue the collision mitigations and increase in safety for everyone on Colfax on the stretch from Sheridan to Wadsworth? link

    Hi, I'm a bit confused by the document because the focus and the plans are for the stretch of Colfax between Sheridan and Teller St., but then the document includes alarming statistics of accidents and fatalities of the section of Colfax between Sheridan and Wadsworth, and states, "West Colfax from Sheridan to Wadsworth has the highest number of vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in the city..." Are there plans to continue the collision mitigations and increase in safety for everyone on Colfax on the stretch from Sheridan to Wadsworth?

    Aimee asked about 1 year ago

    The segment between Sheridan and Wadsworth does have an exceedingly high number of accidents and fatalities. A key element of the West Colfax Safety Project’s solution to addressing this safety issue includes repurposing the outside traffic lane to pedestrian use to include a continuous sidewalk on each side of the street. The segment from Teller Street to Wadsworth already has continuous sidewalks on the north and south side of Colfax, largely because of redevelopment that has occurred including the Walmart and Home Depot. The existing acceleration and deceleration lanes in this section must remain in place to handle the high level of vehicular traffic at this major intersection, and these limit adding other elements from the project at this location.

    Sincerely,

    The Project Team

  • Share Due to traffic, Wadsworth between Colfax and 6th Ave was recently expanded from 2 to three lanes at a significant cost. So why are we reducing Colfax from 3 lanes to two? It seems very contradictory , shortsighted and a waste of taxpayer money . on Facebook Share Due to traffic, Wadsworth between Colfax and 6th Ave was recently expanded from 2 to three lanes at a significant cost. So why are we reducing Colfax from 3 lanes to two? It seems very contradictory , shortsighted and a waste of taxpayer money . on Twitter Share Due to traffic, Wadsworth between Colfax and 6th Ave was recently expanded from 2 to three lanes at a significant cost. So why are we reducing Colfax from 3 lanes to two? It seems very contradictory , shortsighted and a waste of taxpayer money . on Linkedin Email Due to traffic, Wadsworth between Colfax and 6th Ave was recently expanded from 2 to three lanes at a significant cost. So why are we reducing Colfax from 3 lanes to two? It seems very contradictory , shortsighted and a waste of taxpayer money . link

    Due to traffic, Wadsworth between Colfax and 6th Ave was recently expanded from 2 to three lanes at a significant cost. So why are we reducing Colfax from 3 lanes to two? It seems very contradictory , shortsighted and a waste of taxpayer money .

    Kile asked over 1 year ago

    Kile –

    Thanks for your question and please review the information below:

    • U.S. 6/West Sixth Avenue and Interstate 70 reduce the need for an additional east-west routes in this area, and Wadsworth functions differently. It carries three times the amount of traffic than West Colfax because it is major north-south arterial connecting to U.S. 6 and Interstate 70. Given that, more capacity was needed on Wadsworth.
    • More capacity is not needed on West Colfax. A traffic study conducted for this safety project showed that West Colfax Avenue is not over capacity and that the third (curbside lane) is highly underutilized by vehicles. Additionally, the traffic study of a four lane West Colfax Avenue, instead of the current six lane design, showed that the six-lane roadway was unnecessary.  Additionally, at Sheridan Boulevard to the east in the City of Denver, West Colfax connects to an existing four-lane roadway.
    • The purpose of the West Colfax Safety Project is to address safety. This segment has one of the most dire transportation-related safety issues in the region, and it witnesses a crash almost every day, with an average of two lives being lost each year. Such loss of life along with the severe injuries caused by the crashes in the corridor on a regular basis are unacceptable, and the city is putting in place design changes to address these safety issues.
    • Most of the loss of life is related to pedestrian crashes. These occur due to a combination of the lack of safe crossing opportunities, human factors and pedestrians crossing where motorists don’t expect them to be crossing. Reducing the crossing width of a roadway along with building safe crossings are a proven way to reduces pedestrian crashes by signaling both to the pedestrians and motorists where pedestrian will be crossing.
    • Another safety issue stems from the lack of sidewalk in several locations in this area. Because buying right of way to build sidewalks would be very expensive, the project is using one lane currently not often used by motorists to create these sidewalks, which will provide a safety buffer between motorists and pedestrians.


    Sincerely, 

    The Project Team

  • Share Hello! I recall someone asking a question about separated/protected bike lanes on Colfax and the response being, "we already have a bike lane on 14th." Is there any way we could have the 14th ave bike lane become protected? There are sections that are entirely too narrow to feel safe, cars regularly parked illegally in the bike lane without being ticketed, and bike lane connections to destinations along Colfax are pretty much non-existent. So my question is, will the safety project include any protected bike infrastructure? on Facebook Share Hello! I recall someone asking a question about separated/protected bike lanes on Colfax and the response being, "we already have a bike lane on 14th." Is there any way we could have the 14th ave bike lane become protected? There are sections that are entirely too narrow to feel safe, cars regularly parked illegally in the bike lane without being ticketed, and bike lane connections to destinations along Colfax are pretty much non-existent. So my question is, will the safety project include any protected bike infrastructure? on Twitter Share Hello! I recall someone asking a question about separated/protected bike lanes on Colfax and the response being, "we already have a bike lane on 14th." Is there any way we could have the 14th ave bike lane become protected? There are sections that are entirely too narrow to feel safe, cars regularly parked illegally in the bike lane without being ticketed, and bike lane connections to destinations along Colfax are pretty much non-existent. So my question is, will the safety project include any protected bike infrastructure? on Linkedin Email Hello! I recall someone asking a question about separated/protected bike lanes on Colfax and the response being, "we already have a bike lane on 14th." Is there any way we could have the 14th ave bike lane become protected? There are sections that are entirely too narrow to feel safe, cars regularly parked illegally in the bike lane without being ticketed, and bike lane connections to destinations along Colfax are pretty much non-existent. So my question is, will the safety project include any protected bike infrastructure? link

    Hello! I recall someone asking a question about separated/protected bike lanes on Colfax and the response being, "we already have a bike lane on 14th." Is there any way we could have the 14th ave bike lane become protected? There are sections that are entirely too narrow to feel safe, cars regularly parked illegally in the bike lane without being ticketed, and bike lane connections to destinations along Colfax are pretty much non-existent. So my question is, will the safety project include any protected bike infrastructure?

    zbholman asked about 2 years ago

    Hello, 

    The Colfax Safety Project will not include any “protected” bike lane components. The new continuous sidewalk to be installed along both sides of the street is designed for pedestrian safety and use.

    West 14th Ave is undergoing multiple utility development projects. Completion of the projects will necessitate repaving and potentially reconfiguration of the roadway.

    It has not been determined yet on which roadways will be selected to initially have “protected” bike lanes created in Lakewood.  This discussion is part of the City budget process.

    Thank you for your question,

    Project Team

  • Share What exactly are the plans for the space? Is it going to remain retail/commercial? As we know there have been alot of new multi residential units constructed and currently under construction in this area with no increase in infrastructure to support it. on Facebook Share What exactly are the plans for the space? Is it going to remain retail/commercial? As we know there have been alot of new multi residential units constructed and currently under construction in this area with no increase in infrastructure to support it. on Twitter Share What exactly are the plans for the space? Is it going to remain retail/commercial? As we know there have been alot of new multi residential units constructed and currently under construction in this area with no increase in infrastructure to support it. on Linkedin Email What exactly are the plans for the space? Is it going to remain retail/commercial? As we know there have been alot of new multi residential units constructed and currently under construction in this area with no increase in infrastructure to support it. link

    What exactly are the plans for the space? Is it going to remain retail/commercial? As we know there have been alot of new multi residential units constructed and currently under construction in this area with no increase in infrastructure to support it.

    Kurt asked about 2 years ago

    Hello,

    The West Colfax Safety Project will only include improvements in and directly adjacent to Colfax Avenue between Sheridan Boulevard and Teller Streets. The project will create consistent sidewalks through repurposing the outside lanes of traffic and add designated pedestrian crossings in specific locations. Privately owned properties adjacent to Colfax and in the vicinity will continue to function as they are now or redevelop under existing zoning.

    Thank you for your question. 

    Project Team

Page last updated: 10 Jul 2025, 09:26 AM