US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project

Share US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project on Facebook Share US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project on Twitter Share US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project on Linkedin Email US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project link

The US 34 highway managed by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is a regionally traveled road. In addition to serving as a main corridor for Lovelanders, it also heavily used by visitors and guests as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

According to the City’s traffic data, US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard has 28,000 daily commuters and 21,000 Taft Avenue commuters daily. With this information, as well as how many collisions occur through this heavily congested area, the City has worked to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at one of Loveland’s busiest intersections.

Once complete, the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project will improve the intersection by providing:

  1. Two through lanes of traffic in each direction on North Taft Avenue (north and southbound).
  2. Double turn lanes
  3. Bike lanes, curb, gutter, and sidewalks to promote pedestrian and cyclist safety.
  4. An updated traffic signal at the US 34 and North Taft Avenue intersection, meeting current industry standards.
  5. Water and electric infrastructure enhancements to accommodate future utility demands.

This work will provide safer conditions on North Taft Avenue and the US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard intersection, as well as improve a multi-modal (walking, biking, driving and public transit) corridor along North Taft Avenue that’s part of the City’s larger Connect Loveland Master Plan.

Some history

The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired the homes along North Taft Avenue from 11th Street to Westshore Drive for the project, starting in 2021. In order to accomplish the improvements to widen Taft, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

Why now?

The project must start this summer to meet construction schedules and leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

What's next?

The Taft Avenue demolition work and gas line relocations have been completed. Construction Phase 1 will start on Monday, July 8, weather-dependent. Before this date, the City will begin staging the area along S. Taft Avenue with construction equipment and materials. This project will entail four phasing stages. An overview of the phases is shown on the right sidebar under " Project Timeline" or "Documents."



Why are we doing this project?

After reviewing the crash data, including this area into Connect Loveland and reviewing the multi-modal accessibility of the intersection, the City looks forward to incorporating these much-needed improvements to one of Loveland’s busiest intersections.

How will this be funded?

The project will be supported by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023):

  • Congestion Mitigation Air Quality Grant = $3,330,637
  • TABOR Excess = $100,000
  • General Fund = $2,220,829
    • Allocated funds dedicated from 2021 - 2023.
  • Capital Expansion Fees (CEF)= $2,935,828
    • Developer fees dedicated to improving infrastructure for future expansion.

Stay Informed

To stay informed about this project, subscribe to our email list in the "Stay Informed" section. We understand construction can cause disruptions. Contact our project email at taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or the hotline at 970-599-7788. Our team will respond to your concerns, comments, or questions within 24 hours. Thank you for your patience while this work is being completed.

The US 34 highway managed by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is a regionally traveled road. In addition to serving as a main corridor for Lovelanders, it also heavily used by visitors and guests as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

According to the City’s traffic data, US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard has 28,000 daily commuters and 21,000 Taft Avenue commuters daily. With this information, as well as how many collisions occur through this heavily congested area, the City has worked to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at one of Loveland’s busiest intersections.

Once complete, the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project will improve the intersection by providing:

  1. Two through lanes of traffic in each direction on North Taft Avenue (north and southbound).
  2. Double turn lanes
  3. Bike lanes, curb, gutter, and sidewalks to promote pedestrian and cyclist safety.
  4. An updated traffic signal at the US 34 and North Taft Avenue intersection, meeting current industry standards.
  5. Water and electric infrastructure enhancements to accommodate future utility demands.

This work will provide safer conditions on North Taft Avenue and the US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard intersection, as well as improve a multi-modal (walking, biking, driving and public transit) corridor along North Taft Avenue that’s part of the City’s larger Connect Loveland Master Plan.

Some history

The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired the homes along North Taft Avenue from 11th Street to Westshore Drive for the project, starting in 2021. In order to accomplish the improvements to widen Taft, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

Why now?

The project must start this summer to meet construction schedules and leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

What's next?

The Taft Avenue demolition work and gas line relocations have been completed. Construction Phase 1 will start on Monday, July 8, weather-dependent. Before this date, the City will begin staging the area along S. Taft Avenue with construction equipment and materials. This project will entail four phasing stages. An overview of the phases is shown on the right sidebar under " Project Timeline" or "Documents."



Why are we doing this project?

After reviewing the crash data, including this area into Connect Loveland and reviewing the multi-modal accessibility of the intersection, the City looks forward to incorporating these much-needed improvements to one of Loveland’s busiest intersections.

How will this be funded?

The project will be supported by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023):

  • Congestion Mitigation Air Quality Grant = $3,330,637
  • TABOR Excess = $100,000
  • General Fund = $2,220,829
    • Allocated funds dedicated from 2021 - 2023.
  • Capital Expansion Fees (CEF)= $2,935,828
    • Developer fees dedicated to improving infrastructure for future expansion.

Stay Informed

To stay informed about this project, subscribe to our email list in the "Stay Informed" section. We understand construction can cause disruptions. Contact our project email at taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or the hotline at 970-599-7788. Our team will respond to your concerns, comments, or questions within 24 hours. Thank you for your patience while this work is being completed.

  • FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 2 and proceeds with full Phase 3

    Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 2 and proceeds with full Phase 3 on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 2 and proceeds with full Phase 3 on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 2 and proceeds with full Phase 3 on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 2 and proceeds with full Phase 3 link

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project has completed Phase 2 and will proceed with a full Phase 3 on Monday, Nov. 4, weather dependent.

    Phase 2 included the repair of aging waterline and valves beneath the south edge of US 34 and Taft Avenue to 11th Street, as well as adding bike lanes, ADA sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and two lefthand turn lanes on the south side of Taft Avenue and US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard.

    New traffic control configuration for Phase 3

    As Phase 3 proceeds with operations, a new traffic control configuration will be installed along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard from Westshore Drive to Prospect Avenue. The new traffic control will include new striping to allow crews to work on the north side of US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Restriping is estimated to begin on Monday, Nov. 4, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., weather dependent. Crews will work at night to minimize traffic impacts; however, commuters should expect delays. Flaggers will be onsite to help direct traffic during working hours.

    Phase 3 traffic impacts:

    • A full closure of N. Taft Avenue from US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 18th Street. The closure will remain until Phase 3 is completed.
    • Barriers will be installed from Westshore Drive to Wendy’s to allow crews to reconstruct the sidewalks, curb and gutters along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard.
    • Demolition of a portion of the Safeway parking lot will allow for the widening of N. Taft Avenue to add a new right-turn lane and dual left turning lanes.
    • Traffic is encouraged to detour to the following routes:
      1. Westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
      2. Eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.

    South of US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue fully opens

    As operations shift to the north side of US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and the traffic control configuration begins on Monday, Nov. 4, weather permitting, commuters heading south on N. Taft Avenue can expect the following:

    • Traveling east on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard, drivers will be able to use the right turning lane to head south on N. Taft Avenue. Additionally, the left turning lane to enter the Safeway parking lot will be restored.
    • Traveling west on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard, drivers will be able to turn left at the traffic signal to head south on N. Taft Avenue.
    • Traveling north on N. Taft Avenue, drivers will be limited to using single left and right turning lanes while there’s a full closure of N. Taft Avenue from US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 18th Street.
    • Traveling south on N. Taft Avenue from US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard, drivers will be able to fully access the two through lanes.

    As drivers get accustomed to the new roadway, they should stay alert and monitor speed limits accordingly.

    Additional project details including detour maps, images and other project updates, can be found at letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements. Residents who wish to sign up for weekly project updates, receive the latest information, or contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or call 970-599-7788.

    About

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired and demolished the homes along the west side of Taft Avenue from 11th Street to US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. In order to accomplish the improvements to widen Taft Avenue, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

    Project Funding

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project is funded by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023). Those funding streams include grants, TABOR, General Fund, Capital Expansion Fees and the Water Enterprise Fund. To learn more about the budget for this project, visit letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements.

  • FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project prepares for Phase 3 closure starting October 15

    Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project prepares for Phase 3 closure starting October 15 on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project prepares for Phase 3 closure starting October 15 on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project prepares for Phase 3 closure starting October 15 on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project prepares for Phase 3 closure starting October 15 link
    supporting image

    Fall is a busy time for the City’s Taft/34 Intersection Improvement project as both utility work and transportation work move forward. On Tuesday, Oct. 15, the City of Loveland will begin Phase 3 construction for the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project. Daytime work will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Completion of this work is anticipated by the end of November, weather permitting. Here is what you need to know about traffic closures, detours and work that is happening.

    What road closures and traffic impacts can we expect?

    • Starting Tuesday, Oct. 15, N. Taft Avenue will be closed at the intersection to W. 18th Street.
    • Local access will be maintained for the surrounding neighborhood and business access will remain open along US34/Eisenhower Boulevard.
    • Throughout construction, commuters can expect delays and are encouraged to plan accordingly to allow enough time for their commute.
    • Taft Avenue will be closed in both directions for approximately one week.
    • Southbound Taft Avenue from the intersection to 8th Street is anticipated to be fully open the week of Oct. 21. A target date is projected by Friday, Oct. 25.

    What are the detours?

    • Westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
    • Eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
    • Pedestrian and bike detour: Westshore Drive to N. Colorado Avenue to 8th Street or 18th Street to Van Buren Avenue to 8th Street.

    Why are both south and north Taft Avenue accesses closed for a week?

    • To fully open southbound Taft Avenue, Public Works will complete the remaining ADA sidewalk repairs, curb, gutter and striping. While Public Works is preparing to open southbound Taft Avenue, Water and Power will complete the remaining sanitary sewer work on northbound Taft Avenue. Water and Power’s portion of the US 34 and Taft Avenue Improvement project will be completed by the end of the month.

    What work is being completed during Phase 3?

    • Construction will involve completing Loveland Water and Power’s water valve replacement and sanitary sewer line from the US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft intersection to 18th Street. Public Works’ transportation improvement work will includes adding a right turn lane from the Safeway parking lot to US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard, adding bike lanes, ADA-compliant sidewalks, curb and gutter installations and two left-turn lanes on both sides of Taft Avenue onto US 34.

    When will Phase 3 be completed?

    • Phase 3 is anticipated to be completed by the end of November, weather permitting.

    What’s next for the project?

    • Starting Monday, Oct. 21, Public Works’ Stormwater Division, will repair a failed stormwater pipe on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard between Colorado Avenue and Westshore Drive. This work will be completed in approximately four weeks. At the end of October, the crews will complete emergency stormwater repairs along Lake Loveland between W 22nd Street W 25th Street. The work will be completed in approximately four weeks.
    • After the completion of Phase 3, Phase 4 of the project will pause until spring 2025. During Phase 4, Public Works will reinstall the medians, ADA sidewalks, curb and gutter along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard from Westshore Drive to Prospect Avenue.

    Where can I learn more about the project?

    About

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired and demolished the homes along the west side of Taft Avenue from 11th Street to US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. To accomplish the improvements to widen Taft Avenue, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

    Project Funding

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project is funded by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023). Those funding streams include grants, TABOR, General Fund, Capital Expansion Fees and the Water Enterprise Fund. To learn more about the budget for this project, visit letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements.

  • FOR RELEASE: 18th Street closed during waterline replacement

    Share FOR RELEASE: 18th Street closed during waterline replacement on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: 18th Street closed during waterline replacement on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: 18th Street closed during waterline replacement on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: 18th Street closed during waterline replacement link

    LOVELAND, Colo. – September 25, 2024 –Loveland Water and Power (LWP) crews will close 18th Street from Abeyta Court to North Taft Avenue for three weeks to replace a waterline in phase 3 of the US 34 and Taft Avenue improvement project. Local traffic will be allowed access but through traffic will not be permitted. Traffic is encouraged to detour to the following routes:

    • Westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
    • Eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.

    Crews will install a large meter vault near 18th Street and connect the new water line to the existing cast iron water line beneath Taft Avenue and 18th Street. This upgrade will enhance reliability and support future growth.

    Additional project details including detour maps, images and project updates, can be found at letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements. Residents who wish to sign up for weekly project updates, receive the latest information, or contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or call 970-599-7788. If you see waterline emergencies, please call 970-962-3456.

  • New traffic control configuration starting Sept. 3

    Share New traffic control configuration starting Sept. 3 on Facebook Share New traffic control configuration starting Sept. 3 on Twitter Share New traffic control configuration starting Sept. 3 on Linkedin Email New traffic control configuration starting Sept. 3 link

    As construction progresses for Phase 2, a new traffic control configuration will be implemented for 6-7 weeks. The transition to the new traffic control configuration will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 3, from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Traffic control personnel will be on site to assist motorists through the intersection during the transition.

    The new traffic control configuration will allow crews to complete the remaining work on the south side of Taft Avenue and US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. The new configuration will include the following:

    • New striping will be installed for the two traveling lanes heading eastbound and westbound on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. Orange barrels will be placed in the middle of the road to separate eastbound and westbound traffic.
    • Concrete barriers will be installed on the south side of US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard heading east to protect the work zone from approximately Prospect Avenue (the Starbucks entrance) to Westshore Drive.
    • To ensure safe traffic flow and to abide by the Colorado Department of Transportation's US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard access control plan, the left-turn lanes after the Safeway shopping center heading westbound on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and the Village Inn shopping center heading eastbound on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be permanently closed as part of this transition. The two lanes of traffic will remain open in each direction, and business access along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard will remain open.

    While the new traffic control configuration is installed, traffic is encouraged to detour to the following routes:

    • Westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
    • Eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.

    Additional project details including detour maps, images and other project updates, can be found at letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements. Residents or businesses who wish to sign up for weekly project updates, receive the latest information, or contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or call the project hotline at 970-599-7788. If you see water line emergencies, please call 970-962-3456. 

    Thank you for your continued support as we improve the City’s transportation, water and power infrastructure. 

  • FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 1 and proceeds with full Phase 2

    Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 1 and proceeds with full Phase 2 on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 1 and proceeds with full Phase 2 on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 1 and proceeds with full Phase 2 on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project completes Phase 1 and proceeds with full Phase 2 link

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project has completed Phase 1 and will proceed with a full Phase 2, which includes new waterline work from US 34 and Taft Avenue to 18th Street, beginning Monday, Aug. 26.

    Phase 1 included transportation work by removing the medians and light poles to realign the traffic at the intersection of US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. For water and power improvements, crews replaced aging water valves and water mains at the intersection, as well as installing new traffic signal poles, electrical and communications utility work by pulling wire beneath US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. Phase 2 included the repair of aging waterline and valves beneath the south edge of US 34 and Taft Avenue to 11th Street, which was completed this week. Public Works will continue construction on S. Taft Avenue to 8th Street by adding bike lanes, ADA sidewalks, curbs, gutters, as well as two additional lefthand turn lanes on both northbound and southbound Taft Avenue.

    Traffic Impacts

    • The full closure of S. Taft Avenue from US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 8th Street remains closed and is expected to be completed this fall.
    • The City’s utilities team will progress with the second portion of Phase 2 by installing new waterlines from US 34 and Taft Avenue to 18th Street. Waterline construction will begin at the intersection and move north towards 18th Street. Residents can expect a “soft” closure at W. 15th Street, Ruart Drive, and Westshore Drive, with local access only.
    • Commuters traveling N. Taft Avenue can expect single lane closures with one lane of traffic remaining open in each direction, heading southbound and northbound. Traffic control personnel will be staged at the construction zone to direct local and commuting traffic.
    • Traffic is encouraged to detour to the following routes:
      1. Westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
      2. Eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.

    Phase 2 daytime work will be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Night and weekend work will be occasional and announced in advance. Phase 2 is anticipated to be completed by mid-October, weather permitting.

    The remaining phases of the project include the following:

    • Phase 3 will include a full closure of Taft Avenue from US34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 22nd Street. The closure is currently planned for late fall. For this phase, there will be daytime construction from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Local access will be maintained for the surrounding neighborhood and businesses during the closure. Business access will remain open on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Construction will temporarily pause for the winter months.
    • Phase 4 will include asphalt paving on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard from Prospect Avenue to Harlow Lane. Construction will resume in spring 2025. During construction, the public will be limited to single-lane closures. Night work will be performed for this phase. Traffic should expect delays while navigating the area. Business access will remain open throughout Phase 4.

    Additional project details including detour maps, images and other project updates, can be found at letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements. Residents who wish to sign up for weekly project updates, receive the latest information, or contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or call 970-599-7788. If you see waterline emergencies, please call 970-962-3456.

    About

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired and demolished the homes along the west side of Taft Avenue from 11th Street to US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. In order to accomplish the improvements to widen Taft Avenue, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

    Project Funding

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project is funded by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023). Those funding streams include grants, TABOR, General Fund, Capital Expansion Fees and the Water Enterprise Fund. To learn more about the budget for this project, visit letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements.

  • New signal pole installations planned for Aug. 23

    Share New signal pole installations planned for Aug. 23 on Facebook Share New signal pole installations planned for Aug. 23 on Twitter Share New signal pole installations planned for Aug. 23 on Linkedin Email New signal pole installations planned for Aug. 23 link
    supporting image

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project has installed four new signal poles at the intersection. On Friday, Aug. 23, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., crews will remove the old light poles and power the new ones.

    During this switch, traffic will be diverted to single lanes on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard, heading westbound and eastbound near Westshore Drive and extending past Safeway. Commuters traveling through the area should expect temporary stops and delays. While the signals are transitioning to the new poles, traffic control personnel and uniformed officers will be onsite to direct traffic throughout the transition.

    Commuters are encouraged to use the following detour routes:

    • Westbound traffic on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
    • Eastbound traffic on US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.

    Residents who wish to contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or call 970-599-7788. For water or power line emergencies, can call 970-962-3456.Thank you for your patience as we work to prioritize safety at this intersection. Project details, detour maps, images, and joining the project newsletter for updates can be found at go.lovgov.org/Taft-and-US34.

  • FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project includes full closure for Phase 2 starting July 15

    Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project includes full closure for Phase 2 starting July 15 on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project includes full closure for Phase 2 starting July 15 on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project includes full closure for Phase 2 starting July 15 on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project includes full closure for Phase 2 starting July 15 link

    LOVELAND, Colo. – July 11, 2024 – The City of Loveland will begin Phase 2 construction for the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project on Monday, July 15. Completion of this phase of the work is anticipated by early October, weather permitting. Phase 2 will include a full closure of S. Taft Avenue from US34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 8th Street, which includes daytime work from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

    Construction will include adding an additional lefthand turn lanes on both northbound and southbound Taft Avenue heading onto US 34 to alleviate traffic congestion, as well as adding bike lanes, ADA sidewalks, curbs and gutters to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety. Additionally, Loveland Water and Power will replace the existing 12-inch cast iron pipes installed in the 1960s with new 12-inch PVC pipes. The new infrastructure will provide a pipe life expectancy of 100 years.

    Detour Routes:

    • Westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Lincoln Avenue/US 287, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.
    • Eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will be diverted before the work area to Wilson Avenue, with the option to use 29th Street or 1st Street.

    Phase 1 night work will overlap with Phase 2 daytime work and continue through late July to reduce two weeks off the project’s initial timeline. For both phases, daytime and nighttime construction will happen simultaneously. Nighttime work will be Sunday through Thursday from approximately 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., and daytime work will be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    “In order to maintain forward momentum on the project and avoid any unnecessary downtime for our contractors, there will be approximately a two-week period of overlap for Phases 1 and Phase 2. This operational adjustment will allow us to cut two weeks off of the overall timeline for the project,” said Construction Manager Bonar Crump.

    Local access will be maintained for the surrounding neighborhood and businesses during the closure. Business access will remain open on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Throughout construction, commuters can expect delays and are encouraged to plan accordingly to allow enough time for their commute.

    During nighttime work hours, construction noise from the equipment and temporary lights may be disruptive for residents in the area. Single lane closures are expected overnight. Traffic control signs and devices will be posted at all ends of the work areas along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Personnel will be in the area to navigate traffic during working hours.

    The remaining two phases of the project include the following:

    • Phase 3 will include a full closure of Taft Avenue from US34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 22nd Street. The closure is currently planned from October through December. For this phase, there will be daytime construction from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Local access will be maintained for the surrounding neighborhood and businesses during the closure. Business access will remain open on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Construction will temporarily pause for the winter months.
    • Phase 4 will include asphalt paving on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard from Prospect Avenue to Harlow Lane. Construction will resume in spring 2025. During construction, the public will be limited to single-lane closures. Nighttime work will be performed for this phase. Traffic should expect delays while navigating the area. Business access will remain open throughout Phase 4.


    US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Detour Route

    Additional project details including detour maps, images and other project updates, can be found at letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements. Residents who wish to sign up for weekly project updates, receive the latest information, or contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or 970-599-7788. If you see water line emergencies, please call 970-962-3456.

    About

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired and demolished the homes along the west side of Taft Avenue from 11th Street to US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. In order to accomplish the improvements to widen Taft Avenue, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

    Project Funding

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project is funded by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023). Those funding streams include grants, TABOR, General Fund, Capital Expansion Fees and the Water Enterprise Fund. To learn more about the budget for this project, visit letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements.

  • FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project begins Phase 1 on July 8

    Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project begins Phase 1 on July 8 on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project begins Phase 1 on July 8 on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project begins Phase 1 on July 8 on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project begins Phase 1 on July 8 link

    The City of Loveland will begin Phase 1 construction for the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project on Monday, July 8. This phase of the work will be completed by mid-July, weather permitting.

    Phase 1 includes nighttime work along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard between Westshore Drive and Prospect Avenue to remove light posts and medians to allow lane adjustments while providing safe working conditions for the crews. To maximize efficiencies and costs, the City’s Loveland Water and Power department will simultaneously replace the aging water line beneath the intersection of US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue.

    “The enhancements at the intersection of Taft and US 34 are designed to boost safety and minimize delays for all modes of transportation, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians,” said assistant city engineer Keith Wakefield. “We’re excited to finally complete this 25-year-old project and construct these improvements for the Loveland community.”

    The City has selected Coulson Excavating Company for the roadway improvements and Connell Resources for the waterline improvements as the contractors for construction. Typical working hours for Phase 1 work will be Sunday through Thursday from approximately 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. to limit traffic impacts for businesses, residents and commuters during the day.

    During the working hours of this project, there will be construction noise from the equipment and temporary lights that may be disruptive for residents in the area. Single lane closures are expected overnight. Traffic control signs and devices will be posted at all ends of the work areas along US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Personnel will be in the area to navigate traffic during working hours.

    The remaining three phases of the project include the following:

    • Phase 2 will include a full closure of Taft Avenue from US34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 8th Street. The closure is currently planned from mid-July through October. For this phase, there will be daytime construction from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Local access will be maintained for the surrounding neighborhood and businesses during the closure. Business access will remain open on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue.
    • Phase 3 will include a full closure of Taft Avenue from US34/Eisenhower Boulevard to 22nd Street. The closure is currently planned from October through December. For this phase, there will be daytime construction from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Local access will be maintained for the surrounding neighborhood and businesses during the closure. Business access will remain open on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard and Taft Avenue. Construction will temporarily pause for the winter months.
    • Phase 4 will include asphalt paving on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard from Prospect Avenue to Harlow Lane. Construction will resume in spring 2025. During construction, the public will be limited to single-lane closures. Night work will be performed for this phase. Traffic should expect delays while navigating the area. Business access will remain open throughout Phase 4.

    During Phases 2 and 3, detours for westbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard will occur from Lincoln Avenue/US 287 to 29th Street or 1st Street, and eastbound traffic on US34/Eisenhower Boulevard from Wilson Avenue to 29th Street or 1st Street. Throughout construction, commuters should expect delays and are encouraged to plan accordingly to allow enough time for their commute.

    US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Detour Route

    Additional project details including detour maps, images and other project updates, can be found at letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements. Residents who wish to sign up for weekly project updates, receive the latest information, or contact the project team can email taftus34improvement@getinfonow.us or 970-599-7788. If you see water line emergencies, please call 970-962-3456.

    About

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project was introduced to the Loveland City Council in 1999. Throughout the years, the biggest hurdle for the project has been funding. The City found different funding sources to move the project forward over the years and is now able to move forward with allocated funding dedicated to the project. The City has acquired and demolished the homes along the west side of Taft Avenue from 11th Street to US 34/Eisenhower Boulevard. In order to accomplish the improvements to widen Taft Avenue, additional rights-of-way and easements were required. The City acquired these properties to meet construction schedules and progress with an anticipated summer 2024 construction date—all of which is necessary to leverage federal grant funding opportunities.

    Project Funding

    The US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project is funded by multiple funding streams collected over the past 10 years to move the project forward (2013-2023). Those funding streams include grants, TABOR, General Fund, Capital Expansion Fees and the Water Enterprise Fund. To learn more about the budget for this project, visit letstalkloveland.org/us34-and-taft-intersection-improvements.

  • A second opportunity to learn about the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project

    Share A second opportunity to learn about the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project on Facebook Share A second opportunity to learn about the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project on Twitter Share A second opportunity to learn about the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project on Linkedin Email A second opportunity to learn about the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project link
    supporting image


    April 24 open house with residents and business owners surrounding a plot plan.

    On Wednesday, April 24, 2024, the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement project successfully hosted 35 residents and business owners at the Public Works Administration Building. Thank you to all who attended and provided feedback, questions, comments, or concerns to our project team. The April 24 open house was dedicated to those within a 3,000-foot project radius who would be impacted by the work zones throughout construction. We appreciated the opportunity to connect with guests to address their concerns.

    Another opportunity to learn about the project and connect with the team will be hosted at the Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) Fair from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, May 30, at the Beet Education Center, 201 E. 5th St.

    The event will include the US 34 and Taft Avenue Intersection Improvement Project and other projects planned by the Public Works, Water and Power, and Parks and Recreation departments.

    The CIP Fair will feature displays, construction timelines, phasing information, and opportunities for attendees to engage with City staff. Each project will include budget-related details to help the public understand how infrastructure projects are funded across the City.

    Event Details:

    • Date: Thursday, May 30
    • Time: 4-6 p.m.
    • Location: The Beet Education Center (201 E 5th St.)
    • Department Participation: Public Works, Water and Power, Parks and Recreation, Cultural Services, Finance and North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization.

    Don't miss out on this informative and engaging event! To learn more about the CIP Fair, visit go.lovgov.org/news-7580. The event is also listed on the City’s Facebook, Nextdoor, and X, formerly Twitter, channels. We look forward to seeing you there!

    --

    CONTACT:

  • Daytime sidewalk repairs planned for May 20

    Share Daytime sidewalk repairs planned for May 20 on Facebook Share Daytime sidewalk repairs planned for May 20 on Twitter Share Daytime sidewalk repairs planned for May 20 on Linkedin Email Daytime sidewalk repairs planned for May 20 link

    The relocation of gas lines on Taft Avenue and US 34 is complete; however, two locations at the intersection will require sidewalk repairs. Construction will be located in front of the Village Inn and on the southwest corner of S. Taft Avenue and US 34.

    This work will be performed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, May 20, weather permitting.

    During the working hours of this project, there will be a single lane closure on US 34 heading westbound, starting before Westshore Drive to the Village Inn entrance. Another single lane closure will be on US 34 and Taft Avenue heading eastbound, impacting the right turn lane.

    Traffic control signs will be posted at all ends of the work areas along US 34 and Taft Avenue.

    To avoid the construction area, commuters can detour from US 287 to 29th Street or 1st Street heading westbound. For commuters heading east on US 34 and Taft Avenue, they can detour to Wilson Avenue and 29th Street or 1st Street.

    We appreciate your patience and understanding while this temporary work is being performed and as we prepare for the intersection improvement project. 

    --

    CONTACT:

Page last updated: 01 Nov 2024, 02:55 PM