Colorado's 5th congressional district

Colorado's 5th congressional district is a congressional district in the U.S. state of Colorado. The district lies in the center of the state and mostly comprises Colorado Springs and its suburbs including Cimarron Hills and Fort Carson.

The district is currently represented by Republican Doug Lamborn.

Characteristics

Politics

The Republican Party has held control of the seat since the district's creation. With a Cook PVI of R+16, the 5th Congressional District of Colorado is the most conservative district in the state. Colorado Springs, the main population center within the district, is home to many conservative-leaning organizations. Among these groups are Focus on the Family, its founder Dr. James Dobson (who is considered by some to be the most influential evangelical leader in the country), New Life Church, Compassion International, HCJB, and many others. There is some Democratic strength in this district in central and southern Colorado Springs and some of its suburbs near Pikes Peak, but it is no match for the overwhelming Republican tilt of the district; however, changing demographics in El Paso County may cause this to change in the future.

Colorado State Highway 5

State Highway 5 in the U.S. state of Colorado is the highest paved road in North America. However, this is not a through highway; it is simply a scenic spur route to the summit of Mount Evans, altitude 14,264 feet (4,347 m). The southern terminus of State Highway 5 is at a parking lot somewhat below the actual summit.

Route description

Highway 5 is short, slightly less than 15 miles (24 km). It passes through the Mount Evans Wilderness. This particular state highway is quite unusual in that it does not pass through any cities, towns, or unincorporated communities.

The route is entirely contained within the county of Clear Creek. This highway forms half of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, running from the summit of Mount Evans to the junction with State Highway 103 at Echo Lake Park, about 13 miles (21 km) south of Idaho Springs, the nearest municipality to Highway 5.

Because of its mountainous route, State Highway 5 is closed seasonally when snow clearance becomes excessively difficult, usually from Labor Day to Memorial Day. During the warmer months the road is open 24 hours a day. A toll (or "park fee") is charged, though technically the toll is only necessary for the use of the parking lot at the summit. As a state highway, the road is open to the public and free to traverse out and back.