6th Avenue Bridge construction photo © RTD FasTracks

Construction of FasTracks is underway. Our tax dollars are at work as the West Corridor line takes shape between Denver Union Station and the Jefferson County Government Center in Golden.

The recent announcement of a $304 million federal loan has also allowed construction to begin on the redevelopment of Denver Union Station, and the 20 acres surrounding it. When finished, the new Union Station will be the centerpiece of this system, bringing together commuter and light rail, bus lines, and attractive bike and pedestrian connections in downtown Denver. Construction is also underway along the US36 corridor where bus rapid transit is planned.

There is great progress happening on FasTracks. However, much of the project’s funding comes from sales tax revenue, which has slowed dramatically due to the recession. Decreased revenues combined with increasing materials costs have left the overall FasTracks project with a funding gap of approximately $2.4 billion.

The Indiana Bridge construction is underway on the north and south sides of the 6th Avenue freeway adjacent to Indiana St. photo © RTD Fastracks

Although the FasTracks program continues to make an effort to maximize the use of taxpayer dollars and find ways to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness, it is likely that there will be a need for additional public investment to complete the full build-out of the FasTracks system. Without additional investment, some communities might not see new transit until 2042 or beyond.