Expanding and Improving Transportation Options

Developed in partnership between the Centerra Metro District, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Division of Transit and Rail (DTR), the new Centerra Loveland Mobility Hub has been envisioned from the start as a pivotal component within the state’s larger strategy to improve state-wide connections with strong regional transit and transit-oriented development.

Supporting the first mobility hub to be built by CDOT and the state’s first center-loading facility, Civitas—serving as urban planners and landscape architects on the project—had an opportunity to help the state set new standards. The community of Loveland would also gain an important new gateway, and an inviting experience for commuters and visitors.

The facility is located near the intersection of I-25 and Highway 34, approximately 50 miles from downtown Denver’s Union Station, and replaces a conventional park and ride lot with expanded and elevated transit services. A new Bustang bus loading area operates within the median of I-25, and is accessed by a pedestrian underpass that connects with a new 200-car parking lot. This center-load approach enables buses to quickly and safely exit and re-enter the highway’s Express Lanes, and improves bus service time by 10-15 minutes total per trip.

Civitas’ team worked closely with CDOT to consider the experience of the mobility hub’s users who would be walking through the 300-foot underpass tunnel, in addition to the walk from parking lot to the tunnel entry. Concrete culverts provided the most efficient and cost-effective solution for the tunnel construction, yet would result in an uncomfortable pedestrian experience if left in their raw, original state.

Two 150’ translucent canopies are integrated into the tunnel ramps to let in natural light, while improved tunnel lighting created in collaboration with HLB Lighting Design takes a creative approach to providing additional comfort and safety. A pattern of colorful ceramic steel wall panels and backlit translucent panels in multiple changing color patterns transform the conventional concrete culverts into a high quality transit facility with durable materials, functional design, an infusion of art, and well designed lighting and signage.

Outside the tunnel, large sidewalks, multi-use trails, bike lanes and racks, and local transit connections allow multiple modes to utilize the hub and enable users to switch from bus, car, bike or walking.

Implemented in phases, the Mobility Hub is designed to offer amenities including EV charging stations, an outdoor plaza for coffee and food trucks, and additional artwork and lighting. Rows of trees and additional landscaping will also provide visual and sound buffering, and support water conservation by featuring native plants.

The Centerra Loveland Mobility Hub was celebrated with an official grand opening on October 22, 2024. By giving residents more options to travel and commute safely, conveniently and affordably, the transit facility already supports the state’s goal to reduce traffic and reach climate, air quality and housing goals. It also establishes a foundation for future growth, aligning with long-term transit-oriented development plans for an adjacent innovation district that’s envisioned as a new urban center for the region.