The FasTracks projects that are identified in the RTP amendment to be completed by 2035 are based on RTD's ability to leverage public-private funds or federal grants.

"This is what the plan looks like now, but as opportunities arise, the plan will change," said RTD Board Chair Lee Kemp. "We believe that the plan is fiscally responsible and the right thing to do for the region, as we try to remain flexible to optimize progress on the program."

Another way that RTD is looking to optimize ways to complete more of FasTracks sooner rather than later, is to re-evaluate elements of the FasTracks program and all available resources. RTD General Manager Phil Washington introduced the staff's intent to present to the board within the next 60 days ways of pooling together various resources that can be applied to the partially funded FasTracks projects.

The board also approved a contract award to AECOM for final design of the North Metro Rail Line from downtown Denver up to the 72nd and Colorado Station. This contributes to RTD's $1 billion in expenditures and commitments to the northern communities through 2017.