After months of construction and road closures, Tejon Street in downtown Colorado Springs is open again—this time with major upgrades that promise a smoother, safer, and more business-friendly experience for visitors and locals.
The first phase of the multi-stage project, spanning Colorado Avenue to Pikes Peak Avenue, has been completed. The improvements include new pavement, upgraded parking systems, safer delivery access, and expanded sidewalks designed for pedestrians and outdoor activity.
The reopening has already made a noticeable difference for businesses along the corridor. Jack Quinn’s Bar and Grill, a longtime local favorite, reported its busiest week since the start of construction, a sign that foot traffic and patronage are bouncing back.
“I think it’s worth the wait,” said Elo Fontanez, a local business owner. “The aftermath is good.”
Parking has been one of downtown’s biggest challenges—and the project tackled it head-on. New tap-to-pay kiosks and app-based payment options make it simpler for visitors to find and pay for parking.
“Cards are being read. You can add it from the app instead of just having to go back out to see the meter. So that’s definitely helped out,” said Cooper Davidson, general manager at Jack Quinn’s.
Davidson said the upgrade has reduced frustration among customers: “People not being able to park when there’s only so many spots downtown feel like, oh, we’ll just go up to the something up the next block.”
Another major change was the removal of the center lane, which allows delivery trucks to use designated 15-minute free parking spots without clogging traffic.
“You don’t just have one truck stop in front for one package, you know, blocking up 30 minutes just to deliver one box,” explained Fontanez.
The sidewalks on both sides of Tejon have been expanded to 10 feet wide, including a six-foot amenity zone featuring new trees, streetlights, and benches. The enhancements not only improve accessibility but also encourage more walking, outdoor dining, and casual visits downtown.
“As a business owner, it kind of helps out because you get more walk-in traffic, especially from the people down here and most of the restaurants,” Fontanez noted.
With the completion of phase one, attention has already turned to phase two of the project, which will extend improvements north between Pikes Peak Avenue and Kiowa Street. This stage includes installation of a new gas pipeline and additional roadway adjustments, ensuring the corridor continues to modernize while supporting growth.
City leaders and local businesses alike see the upgrades as an investment in downtown’s future. By improving parking, walkability, and safety, Tejon Street is set to remain one of the most vibrant destinations in Colorado Springs.
Originally reported by Carolynn Felling in Fox 21 News.
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