South Academy Boulevard Improvements Project resumes work next week

The City of Colorado Springs plans to start the next phase of the South Academy Boulevard Improvements Project on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. This project rebuilds the road from East Fountain Boulevard to Jet Wing Drive, fixes drainage problems, and upgrades utilities.

To get ready for construction, parts of South Academy Boulevard between Astrozon Boulevard and Drennen Road will fully close overnight from Sunday through Thursday, starting the evening of January 18. Crews will remove old lane markings, add temporary markings, and set up concrete barriers.

View the Project Page for maps and full details

Closure schedule

Astrozon Blvd to Hancock Expressway

• Sunday, Jan. 18: 7 p.m. - 5 a.m.
• Monday, Jan. 19: 7 p.m. - 5 a.m.
• Thursday, Jan. 22: 7 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Hancock Expressway to Drennen Rd

• Tuesday, Jan. 20: 7 p.m. - 5 a.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 21: 7 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Astrozon Blvd to Drennen Rd (Full Corridor)

• Sunday, Jan. 25: 7 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Closures may change if weather delays work.

Detour routes

When sections are closed, follow posted detour signs:

• Astrozon to Hancock closed: Use Hancock and Astrozon to get back to South Academy.
• Hancock to Drennen closed: Use Drennen and Astrozon to return to South Academy.
• Full corridor closed: Use Drennen and Astrozon to return to South Academy.

New lane setup starts January 26: On Monday, Jan. 26 at 6 a.m., traffic will shift:

• Between Hancock and Drennen: Lanes reduced, traffic moved east.
• Between Hancock and Astrozon: Lanes reduced, traffic moved west.

The slip ramps connecting Hancock Expressway to South Academy Boulevard will also close at 6 a.m. on Monday, January 26. Drivers need to use the signalized intersection to make right-hand turns during construction. Plan for minor delays and watch signs in the area for updates.

Traffic safety

• Two lanes open each way during rush hours
• Speed limit is 35 mph in construction zone
• Left turns allowed where possible
• Businesses will remain open with signs for changes
• Pedestrian paths and bus stops may move temporarily
• Work near driveways may happen at night

Drivers should slow down, follow signs, watch for workers and equipment, and plan for extra time.

This project is funded by voters through the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA). It's the first major rebuilding of South Academy Boulevard since it opened in 1969. The north section was finished in late 2024.

Stay informed

• Project website: ColoradoSprings.gov/AcademyBlvdImprovements
• Project updates: To receive project updates, send your email address to [email protected]
• Project infoline: 719-427-6422
• Register for Text Alerts: Text SABImpacts to 844-289-1002