FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Lindsey Zimmerman 303-860-1040 Meghan Dougherty 303-331-6887

TRAFFIC VOLUME CLIMBS ON Central City Parkway
500,000 Vehicle Counted; New Parkway Arch Lit

CENTRAL CITY, Colo., (June 1, 2005) - Traffic continues to grow on the Parkway that connects at I-70's Hidden Valley Interchange (Exit 243) directly to Central City. The month of May marked a total of 500,000 vehicles that have traveled the Central City Parkway since it opened in November 2004, according to the Central City Business Improvement District (CCBID).

"The Parkway is doing just what it was intended to do," states Joe Behm, president of the Central City Business Improvement District. "That is, providing a modern transportation alternative direct to Central City to carry traffic loads beyond the capacity of existing roads quickly and easily on four-lanes of Parkway. The new Parkway is bringing more traffic, and therefore people, to Central City who is enjoying increased revenues from it."

The Central City Parkway averaged approximately 2,347 vehicles per day when it opened in November and that figure has increased by 58 percent to 4,028 vehicles traveling the Parkway per day in April (most recent full month statistic). A record high daily vehicle count for the period occurred when 6,907 drivers used the parkway on February 19, 2005, and the Parkway achieved a daily 6,200 or more-vehicle count several times already this year.

In addition, total sales tax figures collected from Central City indicate City revenue rose 64 percent in the first five months (November 2004 - April 2005) since the opening of the Parkway, as compared to the corresponding five-month period a year ago. The City has also experienced an increase in gaming revenues, which it directly attributes to the new Central City Parkway. Central City's casino revenues recorded a 45 percent increase in March to $6.4 million, jumping from 38 percent for the month of December (the first full month posted since the Parkway opened), according to the most recent figures from the Colorado Division of Gaming.

"Traffic has increased steadily since we opened, as has our economic viability," said Central City Mayor Buddy Schmalz. "From the time of our opening last November, we planned for an adjustment period for people to make the choice to use the Parkway. We are pleased with our increasing traffic growth and for reaching the 500,000th traveler milestone. We look forward to continued success and growth with the Central City Parkway."

In recognition of this milestone, the new Central City Parkway arch that adorns the bridge over Clear Creek has been lit and will remain lit from dusk until dawn seven days a week. The new arch marks the entrance of the Parkway to transport all types of travelers, tourists and gaming patrons on a quick, easy and scenic drive to Central City in just twelve minutes.

As a result of the increased traffic and revenues, the City of Central is reviewing plans for a new municipal parking structure that would accommodate Central City visitors and anchor the downtown business area. In addition the city is also financing the installation of street lighting along the Parkway that is intended to provide a safe and comfortable drive for travelers along the new 8.4-mile, four-lane roadway. Streetlights are currently being installed along 2.8 miles of the Parkway from the Hidden Valley Interchange and are scheduled for completion this summer. Additional light installation along remaining portions of the Parkway will be considered next year.

For more information on the Central City Parkway, visit: www.centralcityparkway.com

For more information on Central City, visit: www.centralcitycolorado.us

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