Remember: Express Lane payments are never collected through text messages

Statewide – Over the last two years, attempts to scam toll road and Express Lane users across Colorado and the U.S. through fraudulent text alerts have remained unceasing. The scammers typically pose as a toll service, such as Colorado’s ExpressToll, and request users to pay an outstanding toll amount to avoid a late fee.\ \ The Colorado Transportation Investment Office (CTIO), the independent organization within CDOT responsible for Express Lanes, never uses text messaging to collect any payments or personal information from customers. If you receive a text message asking for payment of a toll or an Express Lanes violation in Colorado, it’s a scam.\ \ Text recipients could be deceived into giving away sensitive personal information, including credit card numbers. For their own security, Coloradans are advised to avoid clicking on any links or providing personal information if they receive a text message regarding tolling matters similar to the one below: \ \ Example – “ExpressToll final reminder: You have an outstanding toll account balance. If you fail to pay by Aug. 26, 2025, you will face additional charges or legal action. Pay your balance now at [scam website address].” A number of these texts have come from numbers with a +63 country code, which indicates the message was sent from a number in the Philippines.\ \ While there have been many instances of Colorado residents receiving these scam texts, because they are originating outside of CDOT and CTIO, the state cannot stop their distribution. This issue remains under active investigation with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and people who receive one of these texts are advised to take the following steps:

• File a complaint with the IC3 at www.ic3.gov, and include:
• The phone number from where the text originated.
• The website listed within the text.
• Check your toll account for your actual toll balance at ExpressToll.com.
• Check for any Express Lane safety violations at expresslanesafety.com.   
• Delete any fraudulent texts received.

If you clicked any links or provided your information, make efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.

Please Join the ambulance service as they celebrate this exciting new chapter with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Date: Friday, May 23rd, 2025

Time: 12:00 Noon

Location: 25 N Bent Avenue

Everyone is welcome to attend and share this special moment. Your support makes our mission possible - we look forward to seeing you there!

Various alternating lane closures on South Academy Boulevard between Venetucci Boulevard and Milton Proby Parkway for miscellaneous work

There will be various north- and southbound South Academy Boulevard lane closures on Monday, Dec. 8 through Friday, Dec. 12, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. between Venetucci Boulevard and Milton Proby Parkway to allow crews to install signage and perform remaining roadway, traffic signal and lighting  work. Two lanes of traffic will be maintained in both directions. Drivers should obey posted speed limits, maintain safe following distances, and stay alert for crews and equipment in the work zone.

Traffic Impacts

South Academy Boulevard Widening Project

• Various lane closures of north- and southbound South Academy Boulevard between Venetucci Boulevard and Milton Proby Parkway on Monday, Dec. 8 through Friday, Dec. 12, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Two lanes of traffic will be maintained. Pay attention to signage.

Light and Power at 5:30 pm

Public Works at 6:00 pm

City Council at 7:00 pm

The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

Sec. 20-61. - Preparation and disposal of Garbage for Residential Customers.

(a)Household trash and garbage shall be drained of all fluid and placed in bags for collection.

(b)Bags shall be airtight, securely tied and placed in the approved dumpster for collection.

(c)Garbage must be placed in the dumpsters for collection and removal by the city provider.

(d)Only approved containers that are provided by the City are to be used for the disposal of garbage.

(e)The dumpster lid shall be closed at all times.

The dumpster is not to be used for rocks, hot coals or ashes, batteries, heavy building materials, masonry products, tree limbs, dirt, sod or Hazardous Materials, steel products (pipe, auto parts, large belts, angle iron, etc.), medical waste, or large dead animals.

(f)White Goods, Brush, Yard Waste, furniture, tires, etc., shall not be placed in the Dumpster.

(g)Pet waste must be bagged.

(h)Solid waste shall not be placed in the alleys.

(i)Solid waste shall not be placed on or around the Dumpster.

(Code 1968, § 17-1; Ord. No. 669, § 2(J))

Please be aware of the code and use common sense measures when discarding your trash. You can view all city codes at www.cityoflasanimasco.gov then click on Documents in the menu bar and then City of Las Animas Codes & Ordinances.

Thank you

Our mission is simple: bring Congresswoman Boebert’s office directly to you. Whether you’re a small-business owner in Bent County, a rancher in Baca County, or a family in Lamar—every one of you matters. The decisions made in Washington should reflect the needs and values of Southern Colorado, and that can only happen when we stay connected.

We know that navigating Washington bureaucracy can feel overwhelming. That’s why we hold staff hosted Mobile Office Hours—to remove barriers between you and your government.

Now, none of this would be possible without the hard work of our local partners, city officials, and volunteers. A special thank-you to Mayor Shupe and the entire staff here at City Hall for opening your doors and helping us spread the word. Your commitment to serving Las Animas is what makes Southern Colorado strong.

I also want to acknowledge the first responders, teachers, small-business owners, and farmers among you. You are the backbone of our communities. We understand your challenges—whether it’s workforce shortages, rising costs, or the need for infrastructure improvements. Congresswoman Boebert is fighting in Washington to lower taxes, reduce red tape, and protect our way of life. But she can’t do it alone. She needs to hear from you.

We want to emphasize this: your voice is your power. When you visit our Mobile Office Hours, —you’re participating in democracy. Share your vision for the future of Southern Colorado. Tell us what’s working, what isn’t, and what you’d like Congresswoman Boebert to prioritize when she returns to Washington.

From 11:00 am until 12:30 pm on July 24th, our team is here for you in Las Animas. No appointment necessary—just walk in, say hello, and let us know how we can serve you. Feel free to stay afterward for a chance to meet your neighbors.

1. A brief statement of your background and qualifications\
2. An outline of the priorities you would champion on Council\
3. Any previous public-service or leadership experiences\
4. Your contact information and confirmation of residency in Ward 3\ \ Letters will be accepted on a rolling basis until the vacancy is filled. There is no rigid deadline; we want to move swiftly, but we also want to ensure we hear from everyone who has something to offer.\ \ I urge each of you to consider seriously whether you might be the right person for this job. Serving on the City Council is demanding. It requires hours of meetings, thoughtful deliberation, and a readiness to listen. It demands integrity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. But it also offers the unparalleled reward of shaping policy in ways that lift lives and strengthen neighborhoods.\ \ If public service calls to you, or if you know someone whose talents and values align with these needs, please prepare your letter of interest and deliver it to my office by February 9, 2026. You may hand-deliver it to City Hall during regular business hours, mail it to PO Box 468, or email it to mayor@lasanimas.city . Should you have any questions about the process, feel free to contact my office at (719) 456-0806.\ \ \ Thank you.

Application are available at the Light and Power office in the City Municipal Building. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

APPRENTICE LINEMAN

This is semi-skilled work with the line crew. This employee works under direct supervision of the Foreman and First Class Lineman.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

• Performs work as a groundman and also assists the other members of the crew
• Learns how to use line equipment and perform the work skills of a lineman. Also, learns the proper safety procedures needed for safe line work.
• Acts as a backup Plant Operator, reads meters and performs any work deemed necessary by the Superintendent.
• May require overtime work on holidays, weekends and during emergencies.

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

• Must have a Class B Commercial Drivers License.
• Must have no fear of heights and be able to learn how to operate sll equipment and tools needed for line work.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to walk, climb and work from ladders or at various heights on uneven and slippery surfaces performing manual/physically demanding work under unfavorable weather conditions while handling dangerous equipment or material.
• Must be able to lift, move and maneuver heavy weights of up to 100 pounds on an infrequent basis, and moderate weights on a frequent basis.
• Must be capable of pulling, pushing, bending, stooping and kneeling on a frequent basis.
• Must have sufficient eyesight to judge distances and coordination to get and use the appropriate equipment and tools and assist other line workers.
• Must be able to communicate and receive verbal instruction at distances of up to 75 feet.

On October 1, 2025 the Las Animas City Council will hold a Special Call meeting at 5:00 pm at the City Council Chambers located at 532 Carson in Las Animas, CO 81054. The agenda for this Special Call Meeting will be for the first reading of the pay structure for certain elected officials and to discuss the possibility of selling a property or portion of property. 9/29 10:25am

The Las Animas Police Department is now taking applications for Patrol Officers and a Police Lieutenant. Applications can be picked up or your resume can be dropped off at City Hall located at 532 Carson Avenue, Las Animas, CO 81054. Salary range is from $24 - $28 an hour D.O.E. Las Animas is an EOE.

August 5, 2025 - Metro Mayors Caucus Announces 2025/2026 Municipal Leadership Academy Cohort

Denver, CO — Civic Results is proud to announce the 2025/2026 cohort of the Municipal Leadership Academy (MLA)—a statewide leadership program designed to support and strengthen municipal leaders through in-depth training, peer exchange, and collaborative problem-solving.

Now in its second full year, the MLA provides Colorado’s elected municipal officials with opportunities to deepen their knowledge of good governance, build cross-community relationships, and explore key policy areas such as economic development, housing, communications, public safety, and sustainability.

At a time when local government is more important than ever, municipal leaders are on the front lines of policymaking that directly impacts the daily lives of Coloradans. Whether it’s shaping housing solutions, responding to emergencies, or fostering economic resilience, local elected officials have the power to effect meaningful change—quickly and collaboratively. The Municipal Leadership Academy equips them with the tools, training, and network to lead with vision and impact.

This year’s diverse and dynamic cohort includes 16 elected officials from communities across Colorado:

• Frankie Ashton, City Councilor – City of Victor
• Rondle Cole, City Councilmember – City of Castle Pines
• Rebekka Dailey, Trustee – Town of Wellington
• Jonnah Glassman, Town Councilmember – Town of Silverthorne
• Storm Gloor, Mayor Pro Tem – City of Glendale
• Josh Hardy, Mayor – Town of Granby
• Mitch LaKind, Mayor – Town of Monument
• Justin Martinez, City Councilmember – City of Thornton
• Tim McClung, Mayor – City of Yuma
• Melinda Myers, Mayor – Town of Moffat
• Paula Nystrom, City Councilmember – City of Lakewood
• Peter Padilla, Mayor Pro Tem – City of Brighton
• Andrea Peters, City Councilmember – City of Littleton
• Ryan Schuchard, Councilmember – City of Boulder
• Charles Shupe, Mayor – City of Las Animas
• Amy Tharp, City Councilmember – City of Centennial

Participants will attend seven sessions from August 2025 to March 2026, rotating across locations statewide to reflect Colorado’s geographic and cultural diversity. The program is designed and facilitated by Civic Results, in partnership with the Colorado Municipal League, CIRSA, subject matter experts, and professional trainers.

“We’re excited to welcome this exceptional group of local leaders into the Municipal Leadership Academy,” said Heidi Williams, President & CEO of Civic Results and Executive Director of the Metro Mayors Caucus. “These local elected officials are stepping up to not only lead in their own communities, but to collaborate with peers from across the state to tackle the complex challenges Colorado faces.”

To learn more about the Municipal Leadership Academy, visit: www.civicresults.org Media Contact: info@civicresults.org

Over the past years, we have worked hand in hand with the Bent County Sheriff’s Department. Their professionalism and commitment to the safety of our region have been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing this vital partnership. By joining forces and sharing resources, we’ll ensure a seamless transition—and a stronger, more responsive law-enforcement presence for all of us.

We have chosen the person who will lead this bold endeavor: our new Chief of Police, David Dougherty. Chief Dougherty brings to Las Animas more than forty years of law-enforcement experience, a steadfast commitment to community policing, and a genuine passion for forging trusting relationships between officers and residents. Throughout his career, he has championed programs that engage youth, support victims, and build bridges between law enforcement and the people they serve. He understands that safety is not only about enforcing laws but about listening, educating, and standing shoulder to shoulder with the community.

Chief Dougherty officially assumes his role on January 5, 2026. Over the following weeks, he will be assembling a team of officers who share our values—individuals who are skilled, compassionate, and dedicated to serving Las Animas. Our goal is to have the department fully operational by March 1, 2026, so that from that day forward, you can see a visible, uniformed presence working proactively to keep our streets safe and our neighborhoods peaceful.

But this department will not thrive on structure alone. It will thrive on relationships—with families, students, business owners, and every person who calls Las Animas home. That’s why we warmly invite you to meet Chief Dougherty in person, to share your hopes, concerns, and ideas. On Monday, January 5, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., we will host a public Meet and Greet in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. Light refreshments will be available, and our doors will be wide open.

Come ask your questions: What are his priorities for community outreach? How will the new department collaborate with existing services? What programs can we build together to empower our youth and support our seniors? Your input will help shape the department’s direction from day one. This is your opportunity to make your voice heard and to welcome Chief Dougherty into our community with the warmth and hospitality for which Las Animas is known.

Let me emphasize that public safety is a shared responsibility. We need the eyes and ears of every neighbor, the courage of every citizen to speak up, and the collective strength of our community to stand united. As we launch this new department, let us commit ourselves to open dialogue, mutual respect, and the common goal of a safer, stronger Las Animas.

Thank you for your faith in this city, your dedication to our shared future, and your eagerness to support Chief Dougherty and his team. Together, we will build a police department—and a community—that reflects the best of who we are. I look forward to seeing you all on January 5th, and to walking side by side into this promising new era for Las Animas.

Thank you!

Stwalley has served on numerous boards icluding ARPA (Arkansas River Power Authority) of which he is the longest continuously serving board member. He hopes to bring a positive impact to the council and the City of Las Animas.

We welcome Rick as our newest team player and look forward to his insights for the future of our city!

If you are interested in running for one of our local offices this November, you may pick up a nomination packet and information guide from our City Clerk, Frank Schmeiser, at 532 Carson Ave, Las Animas, CO.

Deadline to turn them back in is August 25, 2025.

Playground equipment has been delivered and installed! Please visit the City Park and check out the equipment. The kids are loving it. With warmer weather coming around more children have been at the park enjoying the new equipment already. One youngster was asked what they thought of the new playground and the response was “It’s the best playground I have seen in my whole life!”

Many thanks to our city leaders for this addition to our wonderful community.

A Public Hearing will be held for adoption of the Model Traffic Code for the State of Colorado on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 5:00 pm in the City Council Chambers at 532 Carson Ave. Las Animas Colorado. Copies of the Code for review are available from the Las Animas City Clerk & Treasurer Fank A. Schmeiser during regular business hours. The public is invited and encouraged to attend all meetings.

City of Las Animas Frank A. Schmeiser City Clerk & Treasurer

The regular meeting of the Arkansas River Power Authority (ARPA) Board of Directors will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Otero Junior College Student Center, 2001 San Juan, La Junta, Co 81054. A proposed agenda for the meeting will be posted at a designated location in each of the member cities (Holly, La Junta, Lamar, Las Animas, Springfield, and Trinidad, Colorado) at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting. The agenda is also posted on the ARPA website (arpapower.org/board-meetings/) at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. If any member of the public desires a copy of the agenda prior to the meeting, you may request one by calling the ARPA office at 719-336-3496.

Notice of Proposed Budget

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Arkansas River Power Authority and will be available for inspection by the public commencing Monday, November 3, 2025, in the City Clerk’s Office at 532 Carson Ave, Las Animas, Colorado and on the ARPA website: www.arpapower.org/financials/ Any interested elector in an ARPA member community or electricity consumer of an ARPA member (Holly, La Junta, Lamar, Springfield, Las Animas, and Trinidad Colorado) may register objections to the proposed Budget prior to its final adoption. The ARPA Board of Directors will hold a public hearing on the proposed Budget on December 4, 2025, at the Otero Junior College Student Center, 2001 San Juan, La Junta, Colorado., beginning at 10:15 AM. The meeting notice will be posted at the City Clerk’s Office and on the ARPA website no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting. Any public comment or questions concerning the proposed 2026 Budget should be directed to Rick Rigel, General Manager, Arkansas River Power Authority, PO Box 70, Lamar, Colorado, 81052, phone number 719-336-3496, or email rrigel@arpapower.org

Tomorrow morning, Thursday 06/12/2025, for residents that are on Moore to Grove and North of Fifth Street power will be off beginning at 6:00 am until approximately 8:00 am (hopefully sooner) while emergency repairs are being made. Please plan accordingly and we apologize for any inconvenience. Please let your friends and neighbors know about this.

NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that a proposed budget will be submitted on October 14, 2025 to the Las Animas City Council for the ensuing year of 2026. A copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of the City Clerk where same is open for public inspection. Any interested elector of the local government may file any objections to the proposed budget at any time prior to the final adoption by the governing body. Such proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing on December 9, 2025 at 7:00pm to be held in City Council Chambers in the Las Animas Municipal Building located at 532 Carson Avenue, Las Animas, Colorado

A Public Hearing will be held for adoption of the Model Traffic Code for the State of Colorado on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 5:00 pm in the City Council Chambers at 532 Carson Ave. Las Animas Colorado. Copies of the Code for review are available from the Las Animas City Clerk & Treasurer Frank A. Schmeiser during regular business hours. The public is invited and encouraged to attend all meetings.

City of Las Animas

Frank A. Schmeiser

City Clerk & Treasurer

A public hearing will be held on August 29, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. in City Council Chambers at 532 Carson Ave Las Animas, Colorado, for the City of Las Animas Liquor Licensing Authority, to determine the status of Carmen’s Restaurant liquor license.

The City of Las Animas will hold a public hearing on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall in the City Council Chambers. The purpose of this hearing is to get public input for a Special Use Application submitted by Ronald R. Crespin Jr. The proposed use of the property would be to build an automotive repair shop at 125 Elm Ave. The proposed automotive repair shop is in the residential district therefore requiring a special review use permit. The application is available for review at City Hall, 532 Carson Ave., Las Animas, CO 81054 during business hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

All interested parties are invited to the City Council Chambers, 532 Carson Ave., at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025 to give input or by sending a letter to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 468, Las Animas, CO 81054.

A written notice is required to be sent to property owner/owners within 300 feet of 125 Elm Avenue.

A Public Hearing will be held for adoption of the Model Traffic Code for the State of Colorado on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 5:00 pm in the City Council Chambers at 532 Carson Ave. Las Animas Colorado. Copies of the Code for review are available from the Las Animas City Clerk & Treasurer Fank A. Schmeiser during regular business hours. The public is invited and encouraged to attend all meetings.

City of Las Animas

Frank A. Schmeiser

City Clerk & Treasurer

Due to the holiday, our November meeting will be on Wednesday, Nov 12, 2025

• Las Animas Light & Power Board Meeting

  • Second Tuesday of the month at 5:30 pm., in the Council Chambers area City Hall

• Las Animas Public Works Board Meeting

  • Second Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers area City Hall

• Las Animas City Council Meeting

  • Second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers in City Hall

To schedule a ride with SETran please call 719-931-3100

Keynote Event: Bike to School Day May 7

DENVER – As a premier bicycling state, Colorado knows, a bike is so much more than the sum of its parts. For people of all ages, bikes offer exercise, autonomy, scenery, camaraderie, environmental benefits, traffic solutions, and most of all pure joy. The Colorado Department of Transportation is encouraging schools to celebrate the many benefits of actively commuting to and from school by participating in Bike and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 7. This national annual event promotes and practices  bicycle, pedestrian, and road safety among classmates, families, and caregivers. 

Formerly known as Bike to School Day, the expanded event name of Bike and Roll to School Day acknowledges the numerous modes of active transportation on wheels. Not only does this day promote the benefits of active transportation, as well as bicycle and road safety for all, it highlights the importance of establishing safe routes to and from school.“In Lyons, our commitment to Safe Routes to School reflects our community’s commitment to children, safety, and connection,” says Kim Mitchell, Director of Communications and Community Relations with the Town of Lyons. “Bike and Roll Day captures this spirit—with the joy and independence students feel as they walk and ride together.  As we improve infrastructure and connectivity, more families are choosing safe, active, and sustainable ways to get to school. Children enjoy the movement and the feeling of independence.”

Organizers are encouraged to register their school events regardless of when they are held at walkbiketoschool.org as a way of tracking participation and showing support for active, healthy, safe transportation. Registrations also assist Colorado’s ranking among other participating states.

This year, CDOT provided dynamic free stickers designed to appeal to all grades on a first-come, first-serve basis. Helpful resources and ideas, including downloadable posters in English and Spanish, can be found on the CDOT’s Safe Routes to School website at https://www.codot.gov/​programs/bikeped/safe-routes.

Colorado Safe Routes to School is a statewide program of the Colorado Department of Transportation. It works to create and promote safe, accessible, and fun opportunities for kids to walk and bike to and from school.

Truck # 1 is the 1991Chevy Digger Truck with 129012 miles and 245 on the Hour Meter.

Truck # 2 is the 1995 Bucket Truck with 65960 miles and 361 on the Hour Meter.

If you are interested in inspecting or viewing either truck, please contact Las Animas Municipal Light Power @ 719-456-2013 Mon-Fri 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Sealed bids will be accepted until 4:30 P.M. on Friday April 30, 2025. “Vehicle Bid #1 or #2” MUST BE CLEARLY WRITTEN ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE SEALED ENVELOPE. Bids will be opened on Thursday May 01, 2025 at 10:00 A.M.

The winning bidder will be notified by phone and must provide full payment no later than Thursday May 8, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. Payment must be a certified cashiers check or cash only NO PERSONAL CHECKS OR MONEY ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Otherwise, vehicle may be sold to next highest bidder. Vehicle may be picked up once payment is received. Forms and payments must be remitted to: Las Animas Municipal Light & Power 532 Carson Ave Las Animas, CO 81054 719-456-2013 It is understood that the above-mentioned vehicle is being sold AS IS. The purchaser agrees to indemnify Las Animas Municipal Light & Power from any claims associated with the use of said vehicle. It is further understood that NO WARRANTY OF ANY NATURE in connection with said vehicle is expressed or implied. Forms are available at: Las Animas City Hall 532 Carson Ave Las Animas, Co 81054

January 29, 2026 at 12 pm

725 Bent Avenue, Las Animas, Colorado, Lower Level

Agenda

Motion to appoint a Temporary Chair

Action Item: Approve Agenda

Action Item: Consider appointment of a Chair

Action Item: Consider appointment of a Vice-Chair

Discussion on appointment of an Airport Manager

Action Item: Consider appointment of an Airport Manager

Discussion of Lease and License of airport property for fixed-base operator business to Bob Denton

Action Item: Consider approval of Lease and License of airport property for fixed-base operator business to Bob Denton

Financial Report

Other Business

Public comment: Limited to 3 minutes

Next meeting date

Adjourn

Traffic Impacts 

Beginning June 23, motorists will encounter road work at intersections on US 50 and US 287 in Lamar ― US 50 (Main Street) and Maple Street, US 287 (Main Street) and Cedar Street, and US 287 (Main Street) and Savage Avenue. Traffic impacts will include:

• Daytime work hours range from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with possible nighttime work for installation of the mast arms at each intersection.
• Vehicles will be reduced to a single lane during various phases of the project.
• Lane closures will have minimal delays.

Statewide — 21 pedestrians and cyclists have died on Colorado roads so far this year. Although this is down 38% from this time last year, CDOT is urging all road users to be alert for pedestrians and bicyclists as the weather gets warmer. Drivers need to follow the laws that protect vulnerable road users (VRUs). Additionally, VRUs, such as pedestrians and bicyclists, need to recognize their vulnerability on the roadway and obey the traffic laws created for their safety.

Pedestrians and bicyclists have a greater risk of experiencing a severe injury or even death in crashes involving a motor vehicle. In Colorado, pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities have increased 78% since 2015, while passenger vehicle deaths increased 7% in that same timeframe. 2024 was the second deadliest year on record for VRUs, with 134 pedestrian and bicyclist deaths.

“To reverse the trend of pedestrian and bicyclist deaths in the state, it’s critical that drivers refrain from speeding, using their phones and driving impaired,” said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk. “It is important that Coloradans commit to a shared roadway responsibility, creating a safer environment for all roadway users.”

Colorado VRU Safety Laws

CDOT is reminding everyone of the laws designed to keep all road users safe:

Pedestrians Laws:

• It’s illegal to cross in the middle of a block between two signalized intersections.
• Pedestrians must adhere to pedestrian-specific traffic signals and signs.
• If sidewalks aren’t present, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.

Bicycle Laws:

• Bicyclists have the same rights as passenger vehicles, including the right to use the road.
• If riding on a sidewalk, pedestrian path or crosswalk, bicyclists must yield to pedestrians and audibly tell them they are passing.
• Bicyclists must ride as far to the right as possible when passed by a motor vehicle.

Driver Laws:

• Drivers must yield to pedestrians in all marked crosswalks and at intersections, even if there’s no marked crosswalk.
• Drivers may not pass a bicyclist in the same lane if there’s oncoming traffic, unless they give:
• At least half the road to the oncoming vehicle, and
• At least three feet of space between the vehicle (including mirrors) and the bicyclist.
• Drivers must drive sober, without distractions and obey speed limits.

More information is available in the Colorado Revised Statutes  and the CDOT Bicycling Manual, which includes safety tips for bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists.

Driving at unsafe speeds not only endangers the speeding driver but also puts everyone around them at risk, including pedestrians. Slight increases in speed can significantly increase fatality risk. For example, the risk of death for a pedestrian is 10% at an impact speed of 23 mph, 25% at 32 mph, 50% at 42 mph, 75% at 50 mph, and 90% at 58 mph, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

VRU deaths are rising faster than overall traffic fatalities

In 2022, Colorado recorded 764 traffic fatalities, marking one of the deadliest years in the state’s history. Traffic fatalities have since decreased, falling 5.76% in 2023 and an additional 4.58% in 2024. Despite this progress, fatalities involving pedestrians and bicyclists remain high. In 2022, these VRUs represented 17.02% of all deaths on Colorado roads, a figure that climbed to 21.67% in 2023. While slightly reduced in 2024, VRUs still accounted for 19.51% of all traffic deaths in 2024.

“Enforcing traffic laws is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent bicycle and pedestrian crashes,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “However, education is just as vital as enforcement. Drivers need to understand that they share the road with more than just cars. The reality is that people are using more modes than ever to get around. Please slow down and use caution around those vulnerable roadway users.”

CDOT encourages the traveling public to educate themselves on how to do their part in reducing the number of traffic injuries and fatalities, especially for our most vulnerable outside of a vehicle. Learn more about bicycle and pedestrian safety at codot.gov/programs/bikeped.

The Las Animas City Council will be holding a work session to discuss the Las Animas Levee as well as the need for codes and ordinances for short term rentals. This meeting will be held at 5:00 pm on July 28, 2025 at City Hall in the City Council Chambers.