RTD celebrates two decades of light-rail service
Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
October 7, 2014, marks the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Central Rail Line, Regional Transportation District of Denver's (RTD) first light-rail line.
The original 5.3-mile line traveled from I-25 and Broadway to 30th and Downing and was funded entirely by RTD at a cost of $116.5 million. The money came from an existing use tax, RTD’s capital reserve and bonds issued by the district.
The line opened October 7, 1994, and became so popular that RTD had to order more light-rail cars to handle the burgeoning numbers of riders.
Currently, RTD is wrapping up a study on the Central Rail Extension to identify the best transit route, technology type and operating plan for service to run from 30th and Downing and the new East Rail Line’s 38th Blake station.
