Colorado Public Utilities Commission Approves Traffic Signal Installation at US 50 and CR 18 Intersection

Strategic Insights -

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission has issued a decision (Decision No. R23-0555) granting the Colorado Department of Transportation's (CDOT) application to install a new traffic signal at the intersection of US Highway 50 (US 50) and County Road 18 (CR 18) in Otero County. The installation aims to improve safe vehicular movements through the intersection and provide for signalized turn movements.

The Commission deemed the application complete on August 31, 2022, and referred it to Administrative Law Judge Aviv Segev for disposition. After reviewing the application and exhibits, Judge Segev found that the installation of the new traffic signal would improve safety and provide for proper track clearance of vehicles in the event of an approaching train.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) filed an application to install a new traffic signal at the intersection of US 50 and CR 18 in Otero County on July 11, 2022.
  • The Commission deemed the application complete on August 31, 2022, and referred it to Administrative Law Judge Aviv Segev for disposition.
  • Judge Segev found that the installation of the new traffic signal would improve safety and provide for proper track clearance of vehicles in the event of an approaching train.
  • The installation will cost $2,632,751.50, which will be funded 100% with state funds.
  • CDOT proposes starting construction in October 2022 and completing the project by June 2024.
  • The new traffic signal will provide for signalized turn movements and traffic signal phasing to allow for track clearance of vehicles in the event of an approaching train.
  • BNSF Railway Company, the owner of the railroad crossing, was the sole intervenor in the proceeding and reached an agreement with CDOT regarding the design plans.
  • The Commission recommends granting the application as amended on March 21, 2023, and approving the design plans contained in the amended application.

Statistics:

  • The application was filed on July 11, 2022, and deemed complete on August 31, 2022.
  • The estimated cost of construction is $2,632,751.50.
  • CDOT proposes starting construction in October 2022 and completing the project by June 2024.
  • BNSF Railway Company intervened in the proceeding and reached an agreement with CDOT regarding the design plans.
  • The new traffic signal will provide for signalized turn movements and traffic signal phasing to allow for track clearance of vehicles in the event of an approaching train.

Sources:

  • Colorado Public Utilities Commission. (2023). Decision No. R23-0555.
  • Colorado Department of Transportation. (2022). Application for authority to install a new traffic signal at the intersection of US 50 and CR 18 in Otero County.
  • BNSF Railway Company. (2022). Notice of Intervention and Request for Hearing.