Denver’s new rail program advancing ahead of schedule

Denver, Colo. – The North Metro Rail Project, an 18.4-mile electrified commuter rail line which will connect Denver and Adams County via Commerce City, Northglenn and Thornton, has been approved as part of a new commuter rail expansion project. Called FasTracks, the voter-approved transit expansion will include 122 miles of new commuter and light rails as well as 18 miles of rapid transit bus services, in addition to increasing parking throughout the city and renovating Denver Union Station.

The project is a collaborative effort between the city’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) and Graham Contracting Limited.

This step forward for the RTD came shortly after the success of FasTracks' West Rail Line, which was recently recognized as one of the most significant construction projects of 2012 by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).  The award was presented last month at the AGC's annual convention in Palm Springs, Fla.

The West Rail, or “W,” Line was the first completed in the FasTracks program. Denver Transit Construction Group, the civil coordinator in charge of the project, completed the task eight months ahead of schedule on budget. Crossing three cities, the 12 miles of light rail required the construction of 13 bridges and two tunnels as well as intergovernmental negotiation regarding the relocation of utilities and property acquisition. The line will open April 26, and is expected to draw 19,300 daily commuters.

The Metro Denver Region is currently home to nearly 2.8 million people. That number is expected to grow to 4.2 million by 2035. The RTA's FasTracks project aims to serve the transit needs of this rapidly growing community. The FasTracks Project is estimated to cost $6.9 billion and be completed by 2017. For more information visit www.rtd-fastracks.com