Project Background
Environmental Study and Design Overview
The city of Aurora intends to construct operational improvements within and around the intersection of Parker Road and Quincy Avenue through the Quincy Avenue and Smoky Hill Road intersection and surrounding areas. A 2016 study identified the improvements as a means to reduce congestion and improve operational performance and safety in the project area. In early 2020, the city began the next step toward constructing the improvements, including a study to obtain environmental clearance and preparation of preliminary (30%) design plans. Final design began in early 2022 and was completed in late 2024.
The environmental study process was conducted according to National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance to obtain the level of clearance reserved for projects with the least anticipated impacts to environmental and community resources). This study included investigation of impacts and recommendations for necessary mitigation of impacts to environmental resources such as parks and trails, wetlands, threatened and endangered species, noise, hazardous materials, and historic resources. The environmental investigation is complete and full environmental clearance has been obtained.
Coordination is occurring with other agencies including Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Arapahoe County, Cherry Creek State Park, and Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority.