The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Transportation Commission has recommended financing the Interstate 70 East project  through a public private partnership (P3).

According to the I-70 East Value for Money analysis, the I-70 East project is not affordable under a design build model, but can be afforded under both the design, build, operation and maintenance DBOM and design, build, finance, operation and maintenance (DBFOM) models.

The Commission selected the DBFOM method of delivery because of its ability to transfer more risk to the private sector in several key areas including the long-term costs of maintaining the corridor. In this model, the concessionaire is given annual performance payments and must meet strict operations and maintenance standards.

CDOT will now begin engaging industry and develop a financing plan for the first phase of the project as required to complete the Record of Decision, which completes the environmental study process. Additionally, CDOT will continue to seek public input through this process.

The I-70 East project corridor extends through the eastern portion of the City and County of Denver.The current project limits extend (in abbreviated form) from the intersection of I-70 and I-25 east to Tower Road, a distance of approximately 11 miles. This portion of I-70 also intersects several railroad lines, I-270 and I-225.

The purpose of the project is to implement a transportation solution that improves safety, access and mobility. The need for the project results from the following issues:

• Increased transportation demand
• Limited transportation capacity
• Safety concerns; and
• Transportation infrastructure deficiencies

Transportation Commissioner Chairman Ed Peterson stated:

"CDOT will be able to deliver this project beyond what it could do with its limited funds by partnering with the private sector for the construction, operation and maintenance responsibilities. The Commission's decision was based on being the best stewards of public money and trust; however it is important to note that this is just one step in a lengthy process that will include many more decision points. It is important that we have a feasible funding plan in place as the environmental study process is concluded and a final alternative is chosen."

Tony DeVito, Director, Region 1, commented:

"The I-70 East project will help to replace aging infrastructure, relieve congestion, re-unite neighborhoods and meet the growing needs of one of Colorado's most important corridors for tourism, travel, industry and commuters," said Tony DeVito, Director, Region 1. "By transferring operations and maintenance responsibilities to the private sector, we will be better able to meet the continued growing needs of Denver's metro region. Most importantly, no CDOT jobs will be lost with this project as our crews will be re-deployed to other areas in the region."