MESA COUNTY, CO — Mesa County Commissioners have officially approved a $182,459.75 agreement with Xcel Energy to bring new street lighting to the 32 1/2 Road corridor. The agreement, approved on Tuesday, March 10, is part of ongoing roadway improvements in the growing area.
The newly approved lighting will be installed between Front Street on the north end of the corridor and the Grand Valley Mainline Canal to the south. This project serves to connect previous improvements made on First Street with the recently constructed compact roundabout at 32 1/2 Road and E Road. Project plans include the installation of multiple new steel light poles and fixtures along the corridor and near the roundabout to improve nighttime visibility.
Community Impact and Maintenance
- Adding street lighting was one of the most common requests from residents during the planning phases for the corridor’s improvements.
- The additional lights are intended to improve visibility for drivers, enhance safety for pedestrians, and increase security for nearby homes.
- Mesa County does not own or maintain street lighting. Under the new agreement, Xcel Energy will install the infrastructure, own the lights, and maintain and operate them once the system is complete.
- The county will pay a monthly service rate per light, which is approved by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.
This lighting initiative is one component of the broader 32 1/2 Road improvement project, which is designed to enhance safety, connectivity, and traffic flow along the corridor.