The idea of a new Interstate 70 connection between Eagle and Gypsum isn’t new. It’s been on the table since 1986 and was extensively studied in the early 2000s.
Back then, the primary focus of this project was to provide direct access to the Eagle County Regional Airport, culminating in the Colorado Department of Transportation acquiring the necessary land and finalizing construction plans. Yet, despite this preparation, construction funds were never realized, and the project was shelved in 2010.
Now, over a decade later, the town of Gypsum has taken the reins as the lead agency to reignite this critical project. And it’s not a moment too soon. Our community has changed dramatically since the project was first conceived. Eagle County’s population has grown by 30% since 2000, while the combined population of Gypsum and Eagle has increased by an astounding 243%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This level of growth demands action to ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with our community’s needs.
The needs of western Eagle County have evolved significantly. What was once seen primarily as an airport-access project has become necessary for public safety, operational efficiency, economic growth, and a sustainable future.
Our region faces increasing threats from wildfires and flooding. Relying solely on the existing interchanges at Eagle and Gypsum leaves our communities vulnerable. It’s fundamentally unsafe to continue to expand without creating additional access points to I-70. This new interchange will provide a crucial alternative route during emergencies, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike.
Support Local Journalism
Western Eagle County’s transportation network is fragile. Any disruption — from a crash, rockfall, or fire — forces traffic onto local roads, creating gridlock and hindering access to schools, workplaces, and health care facilities. A strategically located interchange will give CDOT, the Colorado State Patrol, and the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office greater flexibility to manage detour traffic, keeping our local roads clear and functional.
Gypsum’s light industrial area, including regional FedEx and UPS hubs, construction materials suppliers, Tesla vehicle storage, and fuel providers, generates significant freight traffic. Currently, much of this traffic passes through pedestrian-heavy and school-facing roads, posing safety risks. Initial estimates suggest that 65% of this truck traffic would shift to the new interchange, creating safer and more efficient freight routes.
A new connection to I-70 opens exciting possibilities for regional transit. Core Transit could optimize bus routes for greater efficiency, while CDOT’s Bustang services could directly connect to the Eagle County Regional Airport. This project will also support better multimodal options, enhancing transportation access for residents and visitors alike.
The Eagle County Regional Airport remains a vital economic driver for our region. As passenger numbers continue to grow, so too do economic opportunities. This growth fuels the demand for workforce housing and reliable connections between residential areas and job sites. A new interchange will play a critical role in safely and efficiently connecting our workforce to the jobs that sustain our tourism and recreation-based economy.
The I-70 airport interchange project is no longer a “nice-to-have” but a “must-have” for Eagle County. It addresses our current challenges while preparing us for the future. As we look ahead, the town of Gypsum’s leadership in championing this project is commendable. However, it will require continued collaboration, funding, and community support to bring this vision to life.
Our community has waited long enough. It’s time to move forward with this essential infrastructure project — for the safety, efficiency, and future prosperity of Eagle County.
Chris Romer is president and CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, a three-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com.