Denver City Council approves contract to study Peña Boulevard project

Denver has approved a $15 million contract with Lakewood-based Peak Consulting to study the potential widening of Peña Boulevard in order to accommodate more traffic to the airport. The study will look at widening the road west of E-470 and assess potential environmental impacts, as required by the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The ultimate goal is to prepare for a future construction project on the corridor.

While the proposal received overwhelming support from the City Council, there were differing opinions among council members. Some believe that widening the road is a necessary step to alleviate congestion, while others argue that simply widening roads does not address the problem in the long term.

Despite initial opposition, the project received a 9-2 vote for advancement, with several council members changing their stance from a previous vote. Councilwoman Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, who had previously voted against a related matter in 2024, expressed concerns about the impact on residents in the area but ultimately supported the study.

Other council members highlighted the importance of improving Peña Boulevard not only for airport employees and travelers but also for residents who rely on the road for various reasons. Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore, representing neighborhoods around Peña Boulevard, referred to the road as a lifeline for her community.

However, not all council members were in favor of the contract. Councilwomen Sarah Parady and Shontel Lewis opposed the contract due to the lack of focus on enhancing transit ridership on the A-Line commuter rail. They believe investments in public transportation could help avoid the need for continuous highway expansions.

The study process will involve public engagement, analysis of alternatives, environmental assessments, and potential mitigation strategies. Peak Consulting will also be responsible for some design work under the contract. The airport anticipates that the process will be completed in less than five years.

Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell abstained from the vote due to a family member’s involvement with one of the subcontractors, while Councilman Chris Hinds was absent.

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Originally Published: April 1, 2025 at 6:02 PM MDT