GILPIN COUNTY – The I-70 Floyd Hill construction project update took center stage at the Board of County Commissioners meeting on February 25, 2025. All commissioners were present.

Floyd Hill Project Director Kurt Kionka and Deputy Director of Communications Tamara Rollison outlined the project's progress, goals, and impact on local travel.

The project aims to enhance travel reliability by adding a third westbound lane to I-70, which will operate as a tolled express lane from Homestead Road (Exit 247) to Idaho Springs (Exit 241). 

Upon completion of the project, emergency response will improve with a new two-mile frontage road connecting U.S. 6 and Hidden Valley/Central City Parkway. Also, merging conditions, traffic flow, and interchange access will significantly improve.

Safety remains a priority, with plans to straighten dangerous roadway curves, enhance sight distances, and improve air and water quality. Two permanent air quality monitors will be installed, and wildlife connectivity efforts will include deer fencing, escape ramps, and a deer guard on County Road 65. 

Traffic management strategies are in place to minimize disruptions during construction. Lane closures will be limited during peak hours, and new sections of roadway will be constructed adjacent to existing lanes to maintain traffic flow. 

However, drivers should anticipate overnight lane and ramp closures, 20-minute traffic holds for rock blasting, and delays of up to 45 minutes as queues clear. Rock blasting operations are expected to continue through the end of 2026.

In 2024, key milestones were achieved, including the completion of rock scaling and blasting in the East Section, the installation of 5,600 feet of drainage pipe, and the construction of 5.5 lane miles of permanent roadway. 

Project staff encourage commuters to explore alternative transportation options, such as carpooling via the TreadShare app or using regional transit services like Bustang, Snowstang, Outrider, or Pegasus. 

Aiken inquired about the projected entrance to Central City Parkway, and officials confirmed it will feature a five-pointed roundabout with artwork to be determined by stakeholders. A rendering of the design will be released soon.

The Board approved two resolutions: Resolution 25-025 authorizes the County Attorney to negotiate with Union Pacific Railroad for the acquisition of the East Portal Cabins. Resolution 25-026 adopts the official list of County appointments. 

Former Commissioner Marie Mornis voiced concerns over the East Portal Cabins' acquisition, arguing that renovation costs would exceed the budgeted $135,000 and should have required a formal vote.

Timberline Fire Chief Paul Ondr was unable to attend, but Community Development Director Rob Gutierrez appeared on his behalf to discuss the termination of the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for impact fees. The Board accepted Timberline's request to end the agreement, allowing the fire district to collect fees directly starting March 31, 2025.

Commissioners approved Resolution 25-016, authorizing an agreement with the American Red Cross to designate the Gilpin County Community Center as a secondary emergency shelter. The facility would serve as a backup to Gilpin County School during natural disasters or emergencies. Funding for a backup generator, estimated at $30,000, is being sought to ensure the center remains operational during power outages.

A hearing for Resolution BOA 25-2 was opened at 9:49 a.m. It concerns a variance request for the maximum fence height requirement at 601 Old Hughesville Road. Gutierrez requested a continuance until March 25, due to additional notice requirements. The Board approved the request.

Reid Sullivan was approved as the new manager of Toss Wood-Fired Eatery in Rollinsville, replacing Cole Johnson. Clerk and Recorder Sahari McCormick recommended the approval, to which the Board unanimously agreed.

County Attorney Todd Messenger provided legal updates, reviewing contracts for the Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Dakota Hill Site Plan and the U.S. Forest Service Communications Use Lease.  He also advised on various land use and litigation matters. 

County Manager Ray Rears announced upcoming work sessions on March 4 and April 1, covering topics including gaming revenue for law enforcement, drug-affected properties, and updates on broadband and childcare funding. 

A joint meeting with Clear Creek County Commissioners is set for May 20, with an agenda including regional shooting range updates and Metropolitan Planning Organization coordination.

Finance Director Joe Allaire announced his resignation, effective March 6. Jamie Boyle, Grant Manager & Writer, will serve as Acting Finance Director beginning March 10. 

Commissioners expressed concerns over potential federal funding cuts, noting that several grants are yet to be fully dispensed.

During legislative discussion, the Board opted to oppose HB 25-1237, which proposes extending bar closing times from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m.

During a work session, the Commissioners discussed concerns regarding the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) funding. The Joint Budget Committee approved additional funding, but a $17 million to $24 million shortfall remains. The Board postponed sending a unified letter to the governor, as multiple counties have already submitted individual letters.

Further discussion addressed the County’s mission, values, and goals, emphasizing equity, safety, and community engagement. A strategic 20-year capital plan was noted as a major step forward in infrastructure planning. 

The meeting adjourned following discussions on balancing County costs and taxpayer contributions while ensuring sustainable service delivery.

The next regular meeting of the Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled for March 11, 2025, at 9 a.m. and will be held in person at the Historic Courthouse, 203 Eureka Street, Central City, and online via Zoom.