Colorado's newest interstate interchange, the Diverging Diamond Interchange at I-70 and Piccadilly Road in Aurora, has officially opened to all directions of vehicle traffic. This innovative interchange, funded in part by a $25 million federal grant, represents a significant milestone in the region's infrastructure development. The project, which began in 2007, was awarded to Lawrence Construction Co. in January 2023, with groundbreaking ceremonies held later that year. The interchange extends Piccadilly Road between Colfax Avenue and Smith Road, linking eight new miles of roadway with an interchange onto I-70. The city of Aurora emphasizes the safety measures implemented, including advanced signaling systems, wider lanes, improved lighting, and a new bicycle and pedestrian path, to reduce risks to drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The project is expected to unlock a robust roadway network, facilitating new development, job centers, neighborhoods, and Denver International Airport. Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman expressed enthusiasm, stating that Coloradans will now navigate the city with increased ease due to improved mobility and reduced congestion. The interchange is projected to bring an estimated $132 million in vehicle-operating and travel-time savings by 2023, with long-term benefits for the Colorado Aerotropolis, potentially creating 74,000 new jobs by 2040.
