Anyone who has driven Lincoln Avenue through downtown knows the frustration: hitting every red light, idling at multiple intersections, and creeping through the core of our community. This stop-and-go pattern isn’t just annoying — it wastes fuel, increases emissions and can tempt drivers to take risks like running red lights.

There is a proven solution. By coordinating the downtown signals into a “green wave,” vehicles traveling at a steady speed could make it through multiple intersections without stopping. This approach reduces idle time, improves traffic flow, and creates a calmer, safer driving environment for pedestrians, cyclists and visitors.

Other communities have successfully applied this method, and downtown Steamboat’s evenly spaced signals make it an ideal candidate. A timing review by CDOT could go a long way toward improving safety, reducing frustration, and presenting a more welcoming first impression of our town.

I urge CDOT and local leaders to make this a priority. Smoother traffic on Lincoln Avenue will benefit residents, businesses, and the millions of visitors who come to enjoy Steamboat Springs every year.

Lauren Larson, Steamboat Springs