US 34 and US 287 ACCESS Project

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In 2023, the City of Loveland Public Works Department prioritized improving the intersection of US 34 and US 287 — one of the City’s most heavily traveled and critical roadways. This intersection, located in the heart of Loveland, is a crucial connector for regional commuters and local traffic. Addressing safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing bike, pedestrian, and transit accessibility were identified as essential goals to meet the needs of our growing community.

Project Vision

The City of Loveland has brought together a dedicated team of engineers, planners, and professional consultants to study the traffic patterns, safety concerns, and operational needs at US 34 and US 287 intersections. Through detailed analysis, the team identified several promising infrastructure solutions to address the corridor’s growing transportation demands and challenges. Over the coming years, these efforts will focus on designing improvements such as additional turn lanes, enhanced traffic safety technology, and upgraded infrastructure for active modes transportation.

Project Goals

Improve Safety and Operation for all Users

  • Reduce the number of vehicular collisions
  • Improve pedestrian, bike and multimodal traffic elements
  • Offer better protection to active modes at mid-crossing safety zones
  • Increase capacity for vehicular turning movements
  • Remove obstructive sight angles on approach and at turning movements

Maintain and Highlight the Integrity of Historic Loveland

  • Build upon the unique Downtown Loveland identity
  • Provide more wayfinding markers towards Loveland Downtown
  • Limit project impacts and minimize need for additional ROW
  • Develop an engaging and unique streetscape
  • Preserve and maintain the historic Washington Elm tree and Daughters of American Revolution Historic Marker

Focus on Economic Vitality

  • Catalyze businesses with better transportation accessibility
  • Improve freight times and reduce congestion for commercial trucking
  • Create effective phasing plans to minimize construction disruption
  • Connect business to Loveland Economic Development resources
  • Create inviting place for broad demographics to stimulate diverse businesses

Roadway History and Analysis

  • 1997 - Loveland East-West Mobility Study identified the intersection of US 34 and US 287 as an essential linkage for destinations to and from Loveland. Prepared concepts to address improvements in a long-range 20-year plan.
  • 2006 - Traffic evaluation conducted for the one-way streets of US 287 in the downtown corridor.
  • 2007 - Environmental Impact Evaluation (EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) addresses a high-level design study for the US 34 Corridor between US 287 and County Road 3.
  • 2017 - Detailed traffic studies and analysis were conducted for the US 34 & US 287 intersections with preliminary concepts.
  • 2017 - US 287 Asset Inventory provides a synopsis of regional mobility data for US 287 from Fort Collins to Boulder.
  • 2019 - Planning and Environmental Linkage (PEL) Study and Access Control Plan (ACP) provides detailed design plans for the US 34 Corridor between US 287 and County Road 3.
  • 2022 - CDOT presents US 34 and US 287 as 11th ranked priority for Region 4 Intersection Improvements.
  • 2023 - A speed study analyzed speeds, crash history and traffic analysis for US 287 through Loveland.

Over the past 26 years, the intersections at U.S. 34 and U.S. 287 have been extensively studied to improve traffic safety. Ongoing analysis continues to show increases in vehicle volumes, challenges to traffic flow, and opportunities to create a more holistic transportation network that better serves people walking, biking, and driving through this critical intersection. To review the materials that have informed these improvements, please visit the Documents section for past traffic studies.

Project Funding

The City of Loveland project team is focused on securing funding for infrastructure improvements that will directly address safety concerns at key intersections. Preliminary cost estimates for the base of the project are $15 million.

As of January 2026, the City has secured $5.9 million in funding through three sources:

  • Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG): $3.2 million
  • Nonattainment Area Air Pollution Mitigation Enterprise (NAAPME): $1.2 million
  • Loveland General Fund: $1.5 million

The Colorado Department of Transportation has proposed an additional $7 million through their 10-Year Capital Plan, which would bring total funding to $12.9 million—approximately 86% of the base project cost. The City will continue exploring grants and funding opportunities in 2026 to secure the remaining $2.25 million needed to complete the Intersection Safety Improvement Project, an initial first phase of the project.

Next Steps and Multimodal Improvement Opportunities ($7.25 Million)

Beyond the intersection safety work, the project team has identified $7.25 million in additional improvements that would enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users throughout the project area.

The City plans to apply for a FY26 Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant to fund both the $2.25 million remaining for the Intersection Safety Improvement Project and the $7.25 million for Multimodal Improvement Opportunities. If successful, this $9.5 million grant would fully fund both components and deliver comprehensive safety improvements to our community.

Funding summary graphic with three sections. Secured Funding totals $5.9M (39% of Intersection Safety Project), including $3.2M Surface Transportation Block Grant, $1.2M NAAPME air pollution mitigation, and $1.5M Loveland General Fund. Proposed Funding shows $7.0M from the Colorado Department of Transportation 10-Year Capital Plan, bringing Secured + Proposed to $12.9M (86% of Intersection Safety Project). Planned Grant Applications lists a $9.35M BUILD Grant, bringing the total potential funding to $22.25M (100% of Multimodal Safety).

Stay Informed

To stay informed about this project, subscribe to our email list in the "Stay Informed" section.

In 2023, the City of Loveland Public Works Department prioritized improving the intersection of US 34 and US 287 — one of the City’s most heavily traveled and critical roadways. This intersection, located in the heart of Loveland, is a crucial connector for regional commuters and local traffic. Addressing safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing bike, pedestrian, and transit accessibility were identified as essential goals to meet the needs of our growing community.

Project Vision

The City of Loveland has brought together a dedicated team of engineers, planners, and professional consultants to study the traffic patterns, safety concerns, and operational needs at US 34 and US 287 intersections. Through detailed analysis, the team identified several promising infrastructure solutions to address the corridor’s growing transportation demands and challenges. Over the coming years, these efforts will focus on designing improvements such as additional turn lanes, enhanced traffic safety technology, and upgraded infrastructure for active modes transportation.

Project Goals

Improve Safety and Operation for all Users

  • Reduce the number of vehicular collisions
  • Improve pedestrian, bike and multimodal traffic elements
  • Offer better protection to active modes at mid-crossing safety zones
  • Increase capacity for vehicular turning movements
  • Remove obstructive sight angles on approach and at turning movements

Maintain and Highlight the Integrity of Historic Loveland

  • Build upon the unique Downtown Loveland identity
  • Provide more wayfinding markers towards Loveland Downtown
  • Limit project impacts and minimize need for additional ROW
  • Develop an engaging and unique streetscape
  • Preserve and maintain the historic Washington Elm tree and Daughters of American Revolution Historic Marker

Focus on Economic Vitality

  • Catalyze businesses with better transportation accessibility
  • Improve freight times and reduce congestion for commercial trucking
  • Create effective phasing plans to minimize construction disruption
  • Connect business to Loveland Economic Development resources
  • Create inviting place for broad demographics to stimulate diverse businesses

Roadway History and Analysis

  • 1997 - Loveland East-West Mobility Study identified the intersection of US 34 and US 287 as an essential linkage for destinations to and from Loveland. Prepared concepts to address improvements in a long-range 20-year plan.
  • 2006 - Traffic evaluation conducted for the one-way streets of US 287 in the downtown corridor.
  • 2007 - Environmental Impact Evaluation (EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) addresses a high-level design study for the US 34 Corridor between US 287 and County Road 3.
  • 2017 - Detailed traffic studies and analysis were conducted for the US 34 & US 287 intersections with preliminary concepts.
  • 2017 - US 287 Asset Inventory provides a synopsis of regional mobility data for US 287 from Fort Collins to Boulder.
  • 2019 - Planning and Environmental Linkage (PEL) Study and Access Control Plan (ACP) provides detailed design plans for the US 34 Corridor between US 287 and County Road 3.
  • 2022 - CDOT presents US 34 and US 287 as 11th ranked priority for Region 4 Intersection Improvements.
  • 2023 - A speed study analyzed speeds, crash history and traffic analysis for US 287 through Loveland.

Over the past 26 years, the intersections at U.S. 34 and U.S. 287 have been extensively studied to improve traffic safety. Ongoing analysis continues to show increases in vehicle volumes, challenges to traffic flow, and opportunities to create a more holistic transportation network that better serves people walking, biking, and driving through this critical intersection. To review the materials that have informed these improvements, please visit the Documents section for past traffic studies.

Project Funding

The City of Loveland project team is focused on securing funding for infrastructure improvements that will directly address safety concerns at key intersections. Preliminary cost estimates for the base of the project are $15 million.

As of January 2026, the City has secured $5.9 million in funding through three sources:

  • Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG): $3.2 million
  • Nonattainment Area Air Pollution Mitigation Enterprise (NAAPME): $1.2 million
  • Loveland General Fund: $1.5 million

The Colorado Department of Transportation has proposed an additional $7 million through their 10-Year Capital Plan, which would bring total funding to $12.9 million—approximately 86% of the base project cost. The City will continue exploring grants and funding opportunities in 2026 to secure the remaining $2.25 million needed to complete the Intersection Safety Improvement Project, an initial first phase of the project.

Next Steps and Multimodal Improvement Opportunities ($7.25 Million)

Beyond the intersection safety work, the project team has identified $7.25 million in additional improvements that would enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users throughout the project area.

The City plans to apply for a FY26 Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant to fund both the $2.25 million remaining for the Intersection Safety Improvement Project and the $7.25 million for Multimodal Improvement Opportunities. If successful, this $9.5 million grant would fully fund both components and deliver comprehensive safety improvements to our community.

Funding summary graphic with three sections. Secured Funding totals $5.9M (39% of Intersection Safety Project), including $3.2M Surface Transportation Block Grant, $1.2M NAAPME air pollution mitigation, and $1.5M Loveland General Fund. Proposed Funding shows $7.0M from the Colorado Department of Transportation 10-Year Capital Plan, bringing Secured + Proposed to $12.9M (86% of Intersection Safety Project). Planned Grant Applications lists a $9.35M BUILD Grant, bringing the total potential funding to $22.25M (100% of Multimodal Safety).

Stay Informed

To stay informed about this project, subscribe to our email list in the "Stay Informed" section.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about the project? Ask it below and we'll follow-up shortly!

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  • Share How will the businesses be effected by the widening of 34 along the east side of the 34 and 287 intersection? Where does the eastern limits of this project potentially stop? on Facebook Share How will the businesses be effected by the widening of 34 along the east side of the 34 and 287 intersection? Where does the eastern limits of this project potentially stop? on Twitter Share How will the businesses be effected by the widening of 34 along the east side of the 34 and 287 intersection? Where does the eastern limits of this project potentially stop? on Linkedin Email How will the businesses be effected by the widening of 34 along the east side of the 34 and 287 intersection? Where does the eastern limits of this project potentially stop? link

    How will the businesses be effected by the widening of 34 along the east side of the 34 and 287 intersection? Where does the eastern limits of this project potentially stop?

    JD asked 10 months ago

    Hello, thank you for your question about the US 34 and US 287 ACCESS Project and the opportunity to address your concerns.

    The eastern boundary of the project is currently expected to end near Jefferson Street. At this time, we do not anticipate needing to acquire additional land or property to support the planned improvements. While we're still in the early design phase and details may evolve, our engineering team is focused on minimizing impacts and avoiding disruptions to local businesses and property owners wherever possible.

    Although construction planning is still about a year away and traffic control plans have not yet been finalized, it’s likely that work zones will extend farther east than the actual construction area—potentially as far as Monroe Street.

    We understand that construction can be challenging for nearby businesses, and we're committed to reducing those impacts as much as possible. If you have specific questions or considerations about how we can minimize disruptions related to construction boundaries or design, we’d love to hear your input. You may reach our project manager, Justin Piles, at 970-962-2547 or Justin.Piles@cityofloveland.org. 

    Additionally, we’re working closely with our Economic Development team to provide resources and support to those who may be affected throughout the project. 

    We will be initiating additional outreach opportunities this year for additional public input as well. Thank you!

  • Share Hello. We live just west of 287, on Eisenhower just past the Garfield intersection. Will our property be directly affected by the road plans? Will there be widening around this residential block? on Facebook Share Hello. We live just west of 287, on Eisenhower just past the Garfield intersection. Will our property be directly affected by the road plans? Will there be widening around this residential block? on Twitter Share Hello. We live just west of 287, on Eisenhower just past the Garfield intersection. Will our property be directly affected by the road plans? Will there be widening around this residential block? on Linkedin Email Hello. We live just west of 287, on Eisenhower just past the Garfield intersection. Will our property be directly affected by the road plans? Will there be widening around this residential block? link

    Hello. We live just west of 287, on Eisenhower just past the Garfield intersection. Will our property be directly affected by the road plans? Will there be widening around this residential block?

    AnnDiaz asked about 1 year ago

    Hello, thanks for your questions! The western limit of this project will stop at the BNSF Railroad Bridge. Since we’re still in the concept phase, we’re exploring ways to improve pedestrian access on the bridge. We know that any bridge improvements would add a significant cost to the project, but we’re looking into options to enhance walkability in that area.

    While the design limits don’t extend to Garfield Avenue, construction impacts will stay within the project area—from Lincoln Avenue to the BNSF Railroad.

    This spring and summer, we’ll be gathering public feedback to help guide the design of the project. We’ll also be presenting at various board and commission meetings to have more in-depth discussions. On Monday, Feb. 17, we’ll be meeting with the Loveland Disabilities Advisory Commission and the Loveland Historic Preservation Commission. If you’d like to learn more and meet our project team, we’d like you to join us. There will be other outreach opportunities throughout the year, so be sure to check our website for updates.

    And while this project focuses on a specific area, we’re always open to hearing your thoughts on transportation challenges around the city—along with any ideas you might have for solutions. Your input is always welcome! 

  • Share Written "goals" sounds beautiful. Do you have any drawings to show what you want to accomplish. Second, how many months will this project shut down a busy roadway. Third, do you have plans to end the panhandling, which is the primary pedestrian traffic in the area. I do not see any available area to make improvements? how do you plan to create multiple turn lanes? on Facebook Share Written "goals" sounds beautiful. Do you have any drawings to show what you want to accomplish. Second, how many months will this project shut down a busy roadway. Third, do you have plans to end the panhandling, which is the primary pedestrian traffic in the area. I do not see any available area to make improvements? how do you plan to create multiple turn lanes? on Twitter Share Written "goals" sounds beautiful. Do you have any drawings to show what you want to accomplish. Second, how many months will this project shut down a busy roadway. Third, do you have plans to end the panhandling, which is the primary pedestrian traffic in the area. I do not see any available area to make improvements? how do you plan to create multiple turn lanes? on Linkedin Email Written "goals" sounds beautiful. Do you have any drawings to show what you want to accomplish. Second, how many months will this project shut down a busy roadway. Third, do you have plans to end the panhandling, which is the primary pedestrian traffic in the area. I do not see any available area to make improvements? how do you plan to create multiple turn lanes? link

    Written "goals" sounds beautiful. Do you have any drawings to show what you want to accomplish. Second, how many months will this project shut down a busy roadway. Third, do you have plans to end the panhandling, which is the primary pedestrian traffic in the area. I do not see any available area to make improvements? how do you plan to create multiple turn lanes?

    Tom asked about 1 year ago

    Hello, thank you for your questions. Currently, we are in the concept phase for the project, where we are continuing to draft plans for the project. We hope to collect additional community feedback this spring and summer. When we do, we will have detailed renderings of the project to present and discuss ideas with the community. Our public events will also be posted on our website, so please continue to visit the project page to attend and provide your feedback. 

    While we are in the concept phase, community feedback will be essential in developing our construction plans. With our current grant award, we will not be able to start construction any sooner than 2027; however, we will have information on how the project is funded, phased, and where we will focus on constructing our proposed concepts. 

    A core goal of the project is to address pedestrian and bike safety equitably with more accessible infrastructure. After we have a chance to present the project drawings this spring, we hope you are able to join us in attending our outreach events.

Page last updated: 23 Jan 2026, 06:15 PM