Alternatives

Alternatives Development + Evaluation

During the planning process, starting in 1994, 43 unique ideas (known as alternatives) were evaluated before the Preferred Alternative was selected.

Learn how they developed the ideas and selected the Preferred Alternative by diving into the alternative selection process.

Dive even deeper into the alternative selection process

The Preferred Alternative

The Preferred Alternative, documented in the 1998 Record of Decision (ROD), combines three major components:

Highway and Intersection Improvements

Realigned Highway 82 with a new Castle Creek Bridge
Intersection and bridge upgrades
Cut-and-cover tunnel across the Marolt–Thomas Open Space

New Transit System

Initially two exclusive bus lanes (one in each direction)
Provisions for future light rail transit

Transportation Management Program

Expanded bus service between Aspen, El Jebel, and Snowmass Village
Park-and-ride facilities
Rideshare matching program
In-town parking fees and residential permit programs
And more

What’s Been Built vs. Not Built

Completed:

Maroon Creek Bridge
Castle Creek/Maroon Creek roundabout
Owl Creek Road realignment
Expanded transit service
Park-and-ride at Brush Creek
Paid parking in Aspen

Not Completed:

New Castle Creek Bridge
Realigned Highway 82
Cut-and-cover tunnel
Dedicated bus lanes/light rail provisions

Current Options Under Review

The reevaluation will:

Confirm that the Preferred Alternative remains valid.
Consider minor refinements to improve safety, mobility, and environmental performance.
Screen potential modifications using updated traffic, environmental, and community input.

Learn More

Bus Lane Between the Maroon Creek Roundabout and Buttermilk

Community members and City Council have raised questions about whether the bus lane between the Maroon Creek roundabout and Buttermilk could be opened to private vehicles, which would require careful evaluation of risks, impacts, and coordination with regional partners. Under the City’s Charter, voter approval is required before any change to allow additional vehicle use, and further coordination with agencies like RFTA, CDOT, and Pitkin County would also be necessary.

For more information, please visit the memorandum

Comments or Questions

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