Commerce City council authorizes eminent‑domain options to widen Chambers Road

Commerce City Council on May 18 directed the city manager and city attorney to negotiate purchases and to prepare for possible use of eminent domain to secure property needed to widen Chambers Road between 112th and 116th avenues.

Public Works Director Jenna Han told council the phase‑one corridor (112th–116th) has funding identified from congressionally directed spending and the city’s '2K' account and that those funds are sufficient to complete that phase. Council members asked whether Adams County would contribute for property on the west side of Chambers; Han said there is no funding agreement with Adams County for phase one.

Mayor Pro Tim Noble and other council members pressed staff on schedule details for two traffic signals that were expected to go to bid; Han said the procurement package is with the city attorney, bidding is anticipated in mid‑June, and mobilization could take roughly three months after a contract award depending on bidder schedules.

Council Member McKim moved to approve Resolution 2026‑004, authorizing negotiations and the exercise of eminent‑domain powers if needed. Council Member Teter seconded; the motion passed 7–0 (two members excused).

Why it matters: Chambers Road is a principal arterial that the city says needs widening to handle growth and improve safety. By authorizing negotiated purchases and backstopping with eminent domain, the city ensures right‑of‑way acquisition can proceed on the planned timetable for phase one, but council members said they want continued updates on funding, Adams County coordination, and signal timing.

What’s next: Staff said they will pursue negotiations, continue procurement for traffic signals, and return with implementation details and timelines. The resolution allows the city to proceed if negotiations fail to produce acceptable terms.