MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) — The Mesa County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the submission of two ballot measures for the upcoming election.
The first ballot measure, if approved, would allow the county to issue bonds for up to $80 million without raising taxes; instead, funding would come from the county's existing sales tax revenues.
County officials say the 29 Road interchange is part of a plan to improve traffic flow and accessibility in the area and has been a priority for the county since the 1980s. The project will not only connect 29 Road to Interstate 70 but also expand the road between Patterson and I-70 from two to four lanes and add new paths for pedestrians and bikers.
"If you look at the science and the data, it shows the interchange will reduce greenhouse gases. It's going to increase miles traveled and reduce hours on the road. You get to go to more places and do more things with your family, and there will be less impact on the environment. That's a win for everybody," said Commissioner Cody Davis.
Officials say the project will cost about $80 million; $12 million will go towards extending and modifying 29 Road north of Patterson Road and $68 million towards building the interchange itself.
"This is smart growth, and we want that area to thrive. It's not going to take up any agricultural land or water. And for me, that is really important," said Bobbie Daniel, chair of the board of commissioners.
The second measure would allow the county to retain and spend all the excess tax revenue collected last year to perform work on county roads and infrastructure such as filling potholes and reinforcing bridges. The excess revenue amounts to approximately $11.5 billion and would normally be refunded under the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights; funding would only be retained for one year. The measure would also permit the county to increase its TABOR revenue limit starting in 2025.
Both ballot measures will go in front of Mesa County voters in November.