The Colorado Department of Transportation and local partners this week began installing a new bicycle bypass bridge over State Highway 119 at the intersection with 63rd Street in Boulder County, a safety-focused upgrade officials say will separate bicycle traffic from speeding vehicles on a corridor expected to carry substantially more drivers by 2040.
Project pushed forward after fatal crash
The bridge is part of the Safety Mobility and Bikeway Improvements Project that county and state planners say was expedited following the death of Magnus White, a teenage cyclist who was struck and killed at the intersection two years ago. The fatality galvanized advocates and officials who have long sought safer crossings in that stretch of the highway.
"Obviously, we've lost a couple of pretty wonderful young people out there," one local cyclist told reporters, reflecting community concern and the desire for faster action.
Construction crews closed segments of Highway 119 for the initial work; the highway reopened on Friday afternoon, but a second planned closure is set for Friday, July 17, from 5:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. while crews install additional bridge components and complete site work.
What to expect and why it matters
Officials cite two main reasons for the overpass:
- To create a dedicated, grade-separated route for bicyclists, reducing interactions with through traffic.
- To address projected growth: Highway 119 is expected to see roughly a 25% increase in drivers by 2040, increasing conflict risk without infrastructure changes.
Residents and commuters should plan for temporary traffic interruptions during planned closures and watch for detour signage. The project team says the bridge will improve safety for people on bikes, pedestrians and motorists alike, particularly at peak travel hours.
Local context and next steps
Boulder County officials have underscored a broader push to rework corridors that currently force bicyclists to mix with higher-speed vehicle lanes. The bypass is one element of a larger set of mobility improvements being advanced in the county to support active transportation and reduce severe collisions.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Highway 119 & 63rd Street, Boulder County |
| Next closure | July 17, 5:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Projected traffic increase | ~25% by 2040 |
Travelers can expect intermittent lane restrictions as crews set the bridge span and finish approaches. Officials have encouraged people to allow extra travel time on closure days and to follow posted detours.
The bridge represents a tangible change aimed at preventing further tragedies and adapting the corridor for anticipated growth. Local leaders say it will be one of several investments to make roads safer for all users.
