This website contains updated information only for those corridors actively in construction, the Southeast Rail Extension and North Metro Rail. All other content on this website is meant for historical purposes only and may not be up-to-date. Please visit RTD-Denver.com for the latest information about RTD.
Printable VersionCommuter rail cars on the move
Trains are rolling on the Eagle P3 Project.
Commuter rail cars head eastbound on the "A" Line from the Central Park Station
RTD's commuter rail project has entered an exciting new phase of the work.
A year-long testing and commissioning process of the East Rail Line, which makes up just over half of the project, will build to opening day of the A Line.
The "A" Line
A Line - that's the name RTD has given to the train that will run 23 miles between Union Station in downtown Denver and Denver International Airport.All that power
The 25,000-volt substation that will provide all the juice needed to run these heavier commuter rail cars has been tested. The overhead power lines installed above the East Rail Line tracks have been electrified. And the first rail cars have operated under their own power on the tracks out at the airport.
Crews working at the Sandown Substation
Testing plans
Denver Transit Operators, the arm of Denver Transit Partners (DTP) that will operate and maintain the commuter rail system under contract with RTD through 2044, will gradually expand the testing program. It starts with slow-running trains along Peña Boulevard, where there are no public rail crossings. Later, trains will begin to run along Smith Road and finally all the way west into Union Station.Before the A Line opens to the public, DTP will have tested the line at full speed and full schedule. DTP will provide RTD with the exact opening date six months beforehand.
Because commuter rail is new to the Denver region, the testing and commissioning process is different than it was for the light rail system. The Federal Railroad Administration is involved along with the Federal Transit Administration. The automobile and pedestrian crossings are different, and the passenger platforms are higher above the tracks.
Safety education
RTD is conducting a safety program to familiarize the public with these aspects of commuter rail as part of the build-up to opening day.
