RTD to begin testing along G, R lines

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
image description
Commuter train on test run in Arvada on the G Line
RTD

The Regional Transportation District of Denver (RTD) is will begin testing trains along two new alignments: The R Line in Aurora, Colo., and the G Line through Arvada and Wheat Ridge.

RTD began systems integrated testing in July on the first segment of the R Line and with all of the track installed connecting the Aurora Line/I-225 Rail Line from end-to-end of its 10.5-mile-long route and nearly all overhead wiring in place, the project is entering a new phase where light rail trains can be tested on the line. Testing will occur on the segment that runs from Nine Mile Station to Exposition Avenue. The line is scheduled to open in late 2016.

As RTD Project Manager Chuck Culig explains, “Before we open the line for service, we test all the elements of the rail system to verify that the construction produced a safe and reliable operating rail line.”

Individual segments of the G Line have been undergoing testing, but RTD will begin testing along the entire length of the line in preparation for its fall 2016 opening.

The G Line service is part of the Eagle P3 project and will travel 11 miles between Union Station and Wheat Ridge, passing through northwest Denver, Adams County and Arvada.

RTD said communication systems will continue to be tested in conjunction with the trains to make sure the trains, signaling systems, crossing elements, traffic signals and railroad entities synchronize properly.

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