The City of Grand Junction plans to use a $2.3 million grant to fund improvements along North Avenue.

The Colorado Department of Transportation awarded the grant under its Transportation Alternatives Program.

Combined with other previously awarded Transit and Multimodal Options Fund grants, the total scope of the project nears $5 million.

“One of the transportation goals for the city is to preserve the ability for people to navigate easily using whatever mode of transportation best fits their needs,” said Trent Prall, public works director for the City of Grand Junction.

“These improvements to North Avenue will not only provide connectivity on a regional level, but will increase safety for everyone who walks, bikes or rolls along this major roadway in our community,” Prall said.

The grant will enable the city to build about 1.25 miles of detached sidewalk along North Avenue. The grant also provides funds to provide lower stress paths for pedestrians and cyclists along the north side of North Avenue between 29 Road and the Interstate 70 Business Loop and on the south side of North Avenue between 29 1/2 Road and I-70B.

The project will connect with previously funded segments on the north side between 28 1/2 Road and 29 Road and on the south side between 29 Road and 29 1/2 Road.

Design and securing environmental permits and right-of-way will take place through 2024, followed by actual construction in 2025.

The project on North Avenue will address such transportation goals as safety; improved network connectivity; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; and improved equity, quality of life, public health and recreation.

The project will also implement recommendations outlined in the newly adopted city pedestrian and bicycle plan to increase access and connectivity.