I-70 expansion moves forward as residents worry about environmental impact

DENVER -- This month CDOT will take the first steps toward selecting a contractor for the I-70 expansion. As the project moves closer to breaking ground, residents are continuing to voice their concerns.

"Originally people thought they could do whatever they wanted to do in this neighborhood because it’s always been a poor neighborhood," said Lois Doll, a resident in Denver's Cole neighborhood.

Residents met again to discuss the I-70 expansion and controversial Platte to Park Hill storm water project. The potential environmental impact of the construction remains top of mind for many.

The Sierra Club is suing the EPA over air quality issues. Another lawsuit involving flood mitigation at City Park Golf Course is continuing to move forward.

"So we’re very very concerned about the health of people in the project area," said Becky English with the Sierra Club of Colorado.

A spokesperson for CDOT said they have been working with community members for more than a decade to find a solution to I-70. She continued, "Our focus now is to work with residents and businesses as we prepare for construction."

Construction is expected to get underway in 2018. CDOT is providing updates on the project and upcoming meetings online.