For years, traffic on 35th Avenue between 4th Street and F Street in Greeley Colorado has been terrible. It was previously a one-lane road with no bike lanes or sidewalks for pedestrians. Drivers would often have to slow down for pedestrians and bikers using the road, causing a backup in traffic. More traffic backups would be caused by cars slowing to turn since there were also no turn lanes. This caused frustration with drivers as they were often slowing and stopping for turning cars. A construction plan was designed to help traffic between 4th Street and F Street.

In January of 2021, construction was tasked to help this traffic congestion, closing 35th Avenue for about a year. Detours had to be made, resulting in longer travel times. Travelers had to detour on F Street or 4th Street to either 23rd Avenue or to 59th Street. Eventually, F Street to 23rd Avenue was closed for different construction. F Street eventually opened up again in Dec. 2021.  English teacher, Amy Ross, said, “It was a major inconvenience because unfortunately where we live in Eaton, to get to Greeley, 35 is the main way we can go in. I found myself repeatedly having to go and then backtrack to either 85 or 59. It is just so inconvenient.” Abby Schreiner (22) said, “I think that there’s a good reason for why they put the roundabouts in but do I think it warranted it being shut for a year, no.” Having to take detours was very unpleasant not only for Mrs. Ross, but for other residents in Ault, Eaton, and Greeley because it resulted in a longer drive time which is inconvenient for everybody.

Luckily, on January 20, 2022, 35th Avenue finally opened up again. There was an extra lane added from 4th Street to C Street and two new roundabouts were put in as well. Bike lanes and sidewalks were also put in for the safety of pedestrians. Hopefully, traffic will flow more smoothly now, and the safety of pedestrians will be ensured.