Noticed the roads getting busier lately? Blame it on the back-to-school season! As students of all ages return to classrooms, traffic patterns take a hit, and here’s why:
1. School Drop-Offs: Parents and buses are flooding the streets during peak hours, causing bottlenecks around schools.
2. More Pedestrians: With students walking or biking to school, drivers need to be extra cautious in school zones.
3. Shifted Schedules: Many parents tweak their work hours for school runs, adding to the morning and afternoon traffic crunch.
When college students return to campus, traffic dynamics in college towns and cities often undergo noticeable changes:
1. Increased Vehicle Volume
a) Student Cars: Many students bring their own cars to campus, leading to more vehicles on the road, especially around campus areas and popular student housing complexes.
b) Parents: The start of the semester sees a surge in vehicles as parents help move students into dorms, contributing to temporary congestion.
2. More Pedestrians and Cyclists: Walking and Biking: College students often walk or bike to campus, increasing pedestrian and cyclist traffic. This demands extra caution from drivers, especially in and around campus areas.
3. Changes in Parking Demand: Parking Challenges: The return of students often leads to a scramble for parking spaces, both on campus and in surrounding neighborhoods, which can cause frustration and further slow traffic.
4. Increased Activity in College Towns: Busy Local Roads: With students back, college towns see more activity in local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, leading to busier streets and intersections.
Tips for Navigating the Change:
Plan for Delays: Expect longer travel times, especially during peak hours.
Use Alternative Routes: Avoid campus areas during busy times if possible.
Be Alert: Watch for increased pedestrian and cyclist activity, especially near college campuses
With these back-to-school dates in mind, you can expect traffic to increase in waves throughout August:
August 12th: Greeley schools start first, so expect traffic to pick up around that area as parents and buses hit the road.
August 15th: PSD, Thompson, and CSU (with move-ins) will see a significant surge, particularly around Fort Collins and Loveland. CSU move-ins will add extra congestion around the campus.
August 16th: University of Northern Colorado’s move ins start and continue until August 21st.
August 19th: As CSU classes begin, the area will be particularly busy, with more students driving to campus and increased pedestrian and bicycle activity.
August 26th: Windsor schools start later, so traffic will spike around this date in that region. Classes begin at UNC.
So, the next time you’re stuck in gridlock, remember: it’s just the back-to-school hustle making its annual return and we are lucky to live in beautiful Northern Colorado.
John Putt | MLS# 9760238
1522 Linden Way is nestled on a cul-de-sac in the highly desirable golf community of Vista Ridge steps away from one of the neighborhood parks. This home has lots of finished sq ft. to enjoy. Basement could be used as 5th bedroom. Enjoy playing golf at Colorado National Golf Club and take advantage of the 2 neighborhood pools and clubhouse in the summer. New roof in 2023, Newer exterior paint and updated kitchen in 2017. Sellers offering $2800 in concessions for hardwood floor refinish or can be done before closing. This home also comes with a 1yr 1st American Home Warranty. Call (970) 420-4498 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Lindsey Crisanti | MLS# 1014552
Welcome to Settlers Village! 896 S Prairie Drive is a well-maintained home that feels like new and boasts over $30k in builder upgrades. Step inside to find durable LVP hardwood floors throughout the main level. The sun-filled, open floor plan leads to a kitchen with 42-inch upper cabinets, quartz countertops, and Slate appliances. Upstairs, the master suite includes a large walk-in closet, a full tiled shower with double sinks, and quartz counters. Two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom with two sinks offer ample space. The convenient laundry room upstairs makes chores a breeze. The fully finished basement features a bedroom, full bathroom, and a living room with a dry bar and quartz countertops. Outside, the three-car garage is insulated, heated and equipped with a hot/cold bib for easy car washing. Relax outside on the 900-square-foot patio, surrounded by a fully landscaped yard complete with planter boxes, drip lines, and a full sprinkler system. Additional storage is available in the 8×10 shed. Located with easy access to Longmont, Windsor, Fort Collins, Boulder, and North Denver, this home is near walking trails, bike trails, and neighborhood parks. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Call 970-310-6999 to schedule a private tour.
Alexis Foster | MLS# 1014725
ATTENTION INVESTORS! TWO HOMES ON ONE LOT! This fixer-upper offers an incredible opportunity for investors with a vision and a passion for remodeling. 3624 Terry Lake Road is situated on a spacious lot in a mature neighborhood of Fort Collins. This dual-home property is perfect for those seeking a multifamily setup or an income-generating investment. Imagine the sight of two charming homes side-by-side, each with a brand-new roof, just waiting to be brought back to life. With water tap and electricity already available, the groundwork is set for your dream project. Please note, this property is sold as-is and the listing price reflects the current condition. Buyers must be accompanied by a licensed agent to explore this unique opportunity. A Fixer-Upper with Endless Potential. Call (970) 310-6999 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Alexis Foster | MLS# 1014877