Seyffert: Support Referendum 2

Aspen voters have a historic opportunity to finally fix our long-standing entrance bottleneck by supporting Referendum 2. Using a small sliver of the Marolt property (less than 3 acres) to build a new bridge and streamline traffic flow is the most practical, cost-effective, and forward-thinking solution for our community.

For decades, the Highway 82 “S-Curves” have choked traffic into Aspen, creating unnecessary congestion, increasing emissions, and frustrating commuters and visitors alike. This problem is not new — Aspen has debated the entrance for over 40 years, and it’s time to act.

The alternative? Rebuilding the existing Castle Creek Bridge using solely Aspen taxpayer dollars, which would bring years of severe construction delays (4++) with little long-term benefit. Instead, Referendum 2 allows us to leverage state and federal funding to cover the majority of costs for a more efficient, modern entrance. This is a rare opportunity to make a smart investment in Aspen’s future without placing the entire financial burden on our city.

Additionally, the Preferred Alternative is designed in a way that minimizes environmental impacts while maximizing transportation benefits. It went through a full Environmental Impact Statement process in 1998 and again in 2007 and will be reevaluated once more so the final project reflects the best possible outcome for both Aspen’s natural beauty and its long-term transportation needs.

With minimal impact on the Marolt property, we can finally implement a solution that reduces congestion, improves safety, and enhances accessibility for residents, workers, and visitors. Let’s move past decades of gridlock and vote YES on Referendum 2 — a common-sense step towards a better Aspen.

Steve Seyffert

Aspen