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Author: I-70 Scout

  • Health officials alert public of potential measles exposure at Denver International Airport and nearby hotel

    Denver (May 22, 2025) — The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, and Denver International Airport (DEN) are notifying the public of a possible measles exposure at Denver International Airport and a nearby hotel. An out-of-state traveler with a confirmed case of measles traveled through Denver International Airport and stayed at the Quality Inn and Suites Denver International Airport while infectious.

    The individual arrived at the international terminal at DEN on Tuesday, May 13, then went to a hotel for the evening. On Wednesday, May 14, the individual returned to DEN and boarded a domestic flight. Anyone who was exposed to the case on either of the flights will be notified directly by their state or local public health agency.

    “This situation underscores the critical importance of vaccination. Staying up to date on vaccinations and being aware of health risks when traveling are important ways to protect yourself and your community,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist and deputy chief medical officer at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. “Measles is highly contagious, and we are working swiftly to identify and notify anyone who may have been exposed. Vaccination remains the most effective protection against this preventable disease.”

    Measles is highly contagious and can sometimes lead to serious health problems. It spreads through the air when a person with it coughs or sneezes, and it can remain in the air for up to two hours after the person has left. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides strong protection. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

    Known exposure locations:

    Based on available information, anyone who was in the following location during the date and times listed may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure and consider avoiding public gatherings or high-risk settings. Monitoring for symptoms is especially critical for people who have not been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine because they are at significantly higher risk. People who are susceptible to measles and were exposed at this location may develop symptoms through Wednesday, June 4. We will update the locations, as necessary.

    Location
    Date/time
    Notes
    Denver International Airport
    8500 Peña Blvd.
    Denver, CO 80249
    Tuesday, May 13
    5 – 8 p.m.
    Arrived at Gate A-27 in concourse A at 5:10 p.m.
    Walked across the bridge to international customs.
    International baggage claim 3.
    Main terminal
    Quality Inn and Suites shuttle to hotel
    Tuesday, May 13
    6 – 8 p.m.
    Rode shuttle at 6 p.m.
    Quality Inn and Suites Denver International Airport
    6890 Tower Rd.
    Denver, CO, 80249
    Tuesday, May 13, 6:15 p.m. – Wednesday, May 14, 7 a.m.
    Hotel lobby and elevator: Tuesday, May 13, 6:15 – 8:15 p.m.
    Hotel lobby and elevator: Wednesday, May 14, 5 – 7 a.m.
    Quality Inn and Suites shuttle to DEN
    Wednesday, May 14
    5 – 7:30 a.m.
    Rode shuttle at 5 a.m.
    Denver International Airport
    8500 Peña Blvd.
    Denver, CO 80249
    Wednesday, May 14
    5:30 – 10 a.m.
    Main terminal, train to gates,  and concourse B. Flight departed from Gate B-86.


    What to do if you may have been exposed and aren’t feeling well:

    People exposed to measles typically develop symptoms 7 to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash that usually starts several days later on the face and spreads.

    If you were at these locations during the exposure window and develop symptoms, immediately contact your health care provider by phone. If you do not have a provider, call an urgent care center or emergency department and explain that you may have been exposed to measles. Calling ahead helps prevent additional exposures.

    Please contact Denver Department of Public Health and Environment for questions as they are the lead investigatory agency.

  • Governor Polis Orders Flags to Half Staff In Honor of Memorial Day

    Today, Governor Polis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff from 12:01 am to 12:00 pm on Monday, May 26, 2025, in celebration of Memorial Day, honoring the brave service members who have died in service of their country.
    “This day honors the incredible Americans who have sacrificed their lives for our country. As we remember these brave men and women, let us remember what they fought to achieve for our country: freedom, independence, security, and hope. I wish my fellow Coloradans  a safe Memorial Day weekend,” said Governor Jared Polis.
  • Adventure without accidents: Tips for safe Memorial Day weekend outdoor fun

    Adventure without accidents: Tips for safe Memorial Day weekend outdoor fun

    DENVER ‒ Ahead of the holiday weekend, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) encourages state park and state wildlife area visitors to act as stewards to help care for the state’s land, wildlife and water by balancing outdoor recreation with mindful conservation.

    Below are a few tips on how to recreate responsibly to help you have a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.

    Life Jackets Save Lives
    The majority of water-related fatalities happen when people are swimming in cold water and paddle boarding or kayaking while not wearing a life jacket.

    • Wear a life jacket​. Regardless of age or experience level, cold water can quickly create a drowning emergency. So, wear a life jacket and protect yourself from the dangers of cold water shock.
    • Paddleboards and kayaks are considered vessels, and life jacket requirements apply.
    • Heavy rain or snow melting in nearby mountains can raise water levels quickly and without notice. Check river flows at https://dwr.state.co.us/Tools/Stations.
    • Only boat or paddle in water conditions you are comfortable and confident in.
    • Boat, raft with a buddy, and avoid floating alone, especially during high flows.

    “On the surface, rivers and streams can seem calm, warm, or shallow. But even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts can become victims to deceptively strong currents, cold water temperatures, and unexpected changes in depth,” said Michael Haskins, River Outfitter Licensing and Swiftwater Investigator. “You should always wear a life jacket, paddle with a buddy, know your limitations, and scout rapids before floating them.”

    Know Before You Go
    Colorado weather is famously unpredictable, with conditions changing constantly. In May, the state experiences melting snowpacks, muddy trails, thinning ice, cold water temperatures, and strong currents on reservoirs and rivers. This unpredictability underscores the importance of planning your outdoor activities with caution and preparedness.

    Be a Pain in the ANS! 
    Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) are invasive species that damage bodies of water and impact industries and products like wine, corn, beer, peaches, drinking water and outdoor recreation. If you’re recreating in the water, you can be a Pain in the ANS — and stop the spread of invasive species.

    Keep Wildlife Wild
    Early summer is a sensitive time for wildlife, as many species nest, birth young or emerge from hibernation. Animals such as coyotes, elk, moose and birds can become aggressive to defend their young.

    Be Careful with Fire
    Although parts of Colorado have received high moisture levels this year, drought conditions still impact whether campfires are allowed or restricted in certain areas.

    • Check fire restrictions or bans at www.coemergency.com.
    • Use designated campfire areas when allowed and available.
    • Put fires out with water until you can touch the embers.
    • Never leave a campfire unattended.

    To schedule an interview with a CPW Public Information Officer about these safety tips, contact the CPW PIO in your region. If possible, please schedule interviews before Friday, May 23.

    Join us in keeping Colorado, Colorado. Opt in to buy a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your next vehicle registration and get access to all Colorado state parks and help fund state park projects, local search and rescue teams and wildlife conservation. Learn more at cpw.info/keepcoloradowild and cpw.info/keepcoloradowildpassspanish.

  • Memorial Day weekend kicks off summer travel across the state

    Memorial Day weekend kicks off summer travel across the state

    Summer traffic ramps up as travelers head to the mountains and other recreational areas across the state beginning this upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

    The Colorado Department of Transportation encourages travelers to know before they go and plan ahead for their summer trips. The planning includes being aware of construction zones along the Interstate 70 mountain corridor, preparing for adverse summer conditions, taking advantage of transit options, and knowing the status of mountain pass openings. Along with camping equipment, hiking boots, mountain bikes, fishing poles and sunscreen, you should come equipped with the information below:

    Memorial Day Travel Weekend Traffic

    Heavy traffic is anticipated along the Front Range and mountain highways, especially on westbound I-70 on Friday and Saturday, and eastbound I-70 from Eagle County to the Denver area on Memorial Day. Other mountain roadways, including US 24, US 34, US 36, US 50 and US 160 should also expect increased traffic.

    To help improve traffic flow, CDOT is suspending all construction and maintenance projects from noon Friday, May 23 until Tuesday morning, May 27. The only exception is for emergency operations.

    Although it is not the busiest of the summer travel weekends, Memorial Day experiences significant amounts of traffic. In 2024, approximately 154,000 vehicles traveled through the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnels over Memorial Day weekend. The most heavily traveled days were going westbound on Friday and eastbound on Memorial Day.

    The breakdown of last year’s travel numbers is below:

    • Friday, May 24 – 24,473 vehicles traveled westbound and 16,457 vehicles traveled eastbound for a total of 40,930
    • Saturday, May 25 – 20,980 vehicles traveled westbound and 15,262 traveled eastbound for a total of 36,242
    • Sunday, May 26 – 16,606 vehicles traveled westbound and 20,751 traveled eastbound for a total of 37,557
    • Monday, May 27 – 14,650 vehicles traveled westbound and 24,763 traveled eastbound for a total of 39,413

    I-70 Mountain Corridor Travel Map and Guide

    Go to I-70 Mountain Corridor: Golden to the Utah Border to view maps that highlight construction projects and impacts. CDOT will release a detailed outlook on summer construction next week.

    Mountain Express Lanes

    An Express Lane is located in both directions on I-70 between Idaho Springs and Empire. The toll lanes are open during peak period travel times, mostly weekends and holidays. Enter and exit the Express Lanes through the dashed lines only, do not drive in the Express Lanes when they are closed and do not travel in the lanes with an oversized vehicle. When these lanes are closed, they are used as an emergency shoulder for disabled vehicles. For text alerts, text xpresslanes (one word) to 2100. Visit the web page: I-70 Express Lanes: Idaho Springs to Empire.

    Mountain Passes

    • Colorado State Highway 5 – Mount Blue Sky: closed for construction until the summer of 2026
    • Colorado State Highway 82 – Independence Pass between Twin Lakes and Aspen: opened to traffic on 4 p.m. Thursday, May 22. For the most up-to-date travel information, visit COtrip.org
    • Trail Ridge Road (US 34) between Estes Park and Grand Lake (Rocky Mountain National Park). For the current road status, call 970-586-1222
    • Guanella Pass between Georgetown and Grant. For the current road status, call 303-679-2422, extension 2
      Kebler & Cottonwood passes. For the most up-to-date conditions, visit gunnisoncounty.org/158/Roads-Bridges

    Scenic Byways

    Another option for travelers this summer is to explore one of Colorado’s 26 Scenic and Historic Byways. More information is available on the scenic byways web page.

    Transportation Alternatives

    CDOT’s Bustang transit system provides an alternative for those who would rather not drive. Bustang serves I-70 between Denver and Grand Junction and I-25 between Fort Collins and Colorado Springs. Outrider is an option for travel through many rural areas of the state. And Pegasus shuttle vans serve the I-70 west corridor between Denver and Avon. Please visit ridebustang.com.

    Spring and Summer Travel Safety Tips

    • As the weather gets warmer, watch for potholes. Winter’s freeze/thaw cycle weather can damage roadways, including the creation of potholes. Spring rain also can make them difficult to see. And they can damage your vehicle, requiring expensive repairs.
    • Keep a safe following distance in case the driver in front of you reacts unpredictably. Avoid swerving to avoid a pothole.
    • Slow down for spring showers. Roads become slick when it first begins to rain because rainwater mixes with road contaminants, like oil and grease. Increase your following distance to allow for proper braking.
    • Watch for pedestrians and bikes. Warmer temperatures mean more people are outside walking or bicycling.
    • Slow down and pay extra attention at crosswalks and along roadways.
    • Share the road with motorcycles. Motorcycles may quickly come in and out of your blind spots due to their speed and size.
    • Always take a second look with more motorcycles out on the road.
    • Animals are on the move. Animal activity increases during the spring, either due to mating season or because they are waking up from winter hibernation. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk.
    • Maintain proper tire air pressure. Tires lose air due to the cold winter temperatures and now can be underinflated.
    • Warmer temperatures can cause tires to be overinflated. Inspect your tires. Adequate tire tread is important for safe driving in wet weather because the tread moves water away from the tire. Less tread means reduced traction.
    • Obey posted speed limits and do not speed in work zones.
    • Stay alert! Expect the unexpected.
    • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
    • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
    • Be patient!
    • Drive sober and no texting!
    Be Safe, Be Prepared travel safety tips
    Be Safe, Be Prepared graphic with travel safety tips

    Know Before You Go

    Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

    Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

    The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

    • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
    • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
    • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
    • Don’t change lanes unnecessarily.
    • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
    • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
    • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
    • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
    • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
    • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
    • Be patient!
  • Don’t Take a Holiday from Sober Driving This Weekend

  • Bridge House Ready to Work Tri-Cities location Opens

    New residential program helps break cycles of homelessness and chronic unemployment
    In a collaborative effort to help those who are unhoused, Arapahoe County, the City of Englewood, the City of Littleton and the City of Sheridan have opened a new Bridge House Ready to Work Tri-Cities location, offering a comprehensive solution to homelessness, unemployment, and community reintegration.
    The state-of-the-art facility, located at 4675 S. Windermere St. in Englewood, represents a significant investment in human potential. Spanning 13,150 square feet, the center can accommodate up to 50 participants in a transformative 9-month to one-year program that boasts an 80% success rate.
    “Addressing homelessness and harm reduction are top priorities for the residents of Arapahoe County,” said Board Chair Leslie Summey. “Our $1.5 million ARPA investment demonstrates our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for our most vulnerable community members.”
    Bridge House’s Ready to Work program provides a holistic approach to breaking cycles of poverty and marginalization through three critical components:
    – Paid work in social enterprise settings
    – Supportive dormitory housing
    – Comprehensive case management support
    “This project reflects what’s possible when local governments and nonprofits come together with a shared purpose,” said Englewood Mayor Othoniel Sierra. “We’re proud to support a program that offers not just shelter, but a real path forward for people who are ready to rebuild their lives. This is about restoring dignity, hope, and opportunity in our community.”
    “Littleton is grateful to be a partner in such important work. Bridge House, Ready to Work and the Navigation Center will offer support and hope, transforming the lives of people facing hardship. I’m thankful for the hard work of everyone who brought this project to life,” said Littleton Mayor Kyle Schlachter
    The project’s funding represents a significant multi-jurisdictional commitment:
    – Arapahoe County: $1 million (American Rescue Plan Act Funds)
    – Arapahoe County: $577,000 (Community Development Block Grants)
    – City of Englewood: $850,000
    – City of Littleton: $175,000 (American Rescue Plan Funds)
    – City of Littleton: $1.5 million Housing & Urban Development grant
    – City of Sheridan: $250,000
    – Additional support from foundation and operational grants
    “By expanding our basic needs and work-first model services and increasing our resources, we are turning the dial on homelessness, creating waves of positive change, and flipping the script on homelessness in our communities,” said Bridge House CEO Melissa Arguello-Green. “Together, we can empower lives, foster hope, and transform challenges into opportunities for those who need it most.”
    Housed also in the same facility is the Tri-Cities Homelessness Navigation Center which offers walk-in services for those looking to escape homelessness and establish stability in their lives. The Navigation Center provides a variety of resources, including housing assistance, employment services, medical and mental health care, counseling, showers, laundry facilities, hot meals, and 20 short-term beds. The Navigation Center is not an emergency weather shelter or drop-off overnight shelter.
    The Bridge House represents a major step in the Tri-Cities Homelessness Action Plan. Learn more at TriCitiesHomeless.com.
  • The National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive This Saturday

    Saturday, May 10, 2025, marks the 33rd anniversary of one of America’s great days of giving – The National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive.
    Throughout its history, the NALC has collected over 1.9 billion pounds of food nationally, thanks to a postal delivery network that spans the entire nation, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
    Attached is the proclamation from the Aurora mayor designating May 10th as Letter Carriers’ Food Drive Day.
    Participating in this year’s Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is simple: leave a non-perishable food donation (glass is not suggested) in a bag by your mailbox on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Your letter carrier will collect the item, and we will get the food to a local food bank or pantry. With your help, letter carriers in the United States Postal Service and the National Association of Letter Carriers can help fight hunger.
    This year, and every year, they are seeking volunteers to assist at post offices. Carriers always need assistance with unloading their vehicles at the end of the day when they return from their collections. Food banks may also require assistance loading food onto their trucks. Have a vehicle? You can help unload carriers’ vehicles of food during the day when their vehicles become too full. Bags and boxes need to be broken down, and food weights must be documented. Anyone who needs a volunteer certificate, they would also be happy to mail or email the completion certificate to you or directly to any organization.
    Please contact NALC to express your interest in volunteering your time this year to help feed our community. Many area post offices need volunteers. The attached list includes the presidents of the branches in Colorado. They would be the best people to reach out to.
    We appreciate your time and willingness. With your help, we can help STAMP OUT HUNGER!
    Colorado Branch President contacts

  • Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission to meet May 7-8, 2025

    Durango, Colo — Next week, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission will convene for a hybrid meeting in Durango. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. on Wed., May 7, and recess at 4:10 p.m. The commission will reconvene at 8:30 a.m. on Thu., May 8, and adjourn at 3 p.m.

    A complete agenda along with all materials for this meeting is available on CPW’s website for public review. The meeting will be streamed live on CPW’s YouTube page.

    The Parks and Wildlife Commission will open for consideration of the adoption of all limited license numbers for black bear, deer, elk, pronghorn and moose for all game management units in the state that have limited licenses for these species for the 2025 big game seasons.

    The commission will also open for necessary changes to implement SB 24-161, relating to denials, suspensions, or revocations of river outfitter license.

    Additional agenda items include:

    • Department of Natural Resources update
    • Department of Agriculture update
    • Financial update
    • GOCO update
    • Wolf Program Update
    • Wolf Damage Claim
    • 2026 OHV Trail Grant Funding Recommendations
    • CPW’s Habitat Conservation and Connectivity Plan
    • Navajo/Mancos State Park Presentation
    • Project 7 Fish and Wildlife Mitigation Plan
    • Colorado Wildlife Habitat Program
    • Citizen Petition to petition to allow the use of non-Migratory Bird Treaty Act corvids for conservation education

    The Consent Agenda includes:

    • Wildlife Damage Claims
    • Citizen petition for rulemaking related to using crossbows during the archery season
    • License Suspension Appeals
    • Real Estate Projects

    The public is encouraged to email written comments to the commission at . Details on providing oral public comments for hybrid meetings are available on CPW’s website.

    The commission meets regularly and travels to communities around the state to facilitate public participation. This opportunity keeps constituents informed about the development of regulations and how the commission works with Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff to manage the parks, wildlife and outdoor recreation programs administered by the agency.

    Learn more about the Parks and Wildlife Commission on CPW’s website.

  • Hamrick’s Bill to Support and Identify Elementary Students with Dyslexia Advances

    DENVER, CO – The House today passed bipartisan legislation on a preliminary vote to jumpstart early identification, support, and clear communication with parents or guardians for elementary school students with dyslexia.
    “Dyslexia is the most commonly diagnosed learning disability, yet Colorado schools do not have a universal screening process,” said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “As a former teacher, I know early intervention is key to setting our students on a pathway to success. This bill would require Colorado schools to implement a universal dyslexia screening to ensure our elementary students receive the support, resources and tools they need to thrive.”
    SB25-200 is also sponsored by Representative Matt Soper, R-Delta. This bill would require schools to either adopt a universal dyslexia screening tool or develop a process to identify students in early elementary grades who exhibit characteristics of dyslexia. The bill would add an extra layer of reading interventions in the Colorado READ Act.
    According to the Colorado Department of Education, dyslexia affects about 15 to 20 percent of the population, making it the most commonly diagnosed learning disability. Early intervention for dyslexia significantly improves educational outcomes. Colorado is one of seven states that does not mandate screenings for dyslexia.
  • House Approves Hamrick Bill to Support Military Families

    DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representative Eliza Hamrick to better support military families by expanding driver license extensions to dependents of active duty members. HB25-1083 unanimously passed by a vote of 63-0.
    “As a former military spouse, I understand the importance of supporting and honoring military members and their families,” said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “Current law allows service members outside of Colorado to extend their expired license for up to three years, and this legislation would expand this benefit to dependents of military service members. I’m proud to sponsor this bill to better support Colorado military families and recognize the sacrifices they make for our state and country.”
    If a Coloradan’s driver license expires while they are on active duty outside of Colorado, current state law allows the expiration date to be extended for three years. Beginning January 1, 2027, HB25-1083 would also allow dependents of these service members to benefit from this three-year extension.