RTD Begins Reconstruction June 7
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RTD will begin a $152 million Downtown Rail reconstruction project on June 7, 2026.
Impact
neutralRTD's reconstruction project will affect local commuters and businesses in downtown Denver, necessitating traffic detours and alternative routes during construction.
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is set to commence a significant reconstruction project in downtown Denver on June 7, 2026. This initiative, valued at $152 million, marks the largest undertaking of its kind in RTD's history. The project will focus on reconstructing light rail infrastructure along Colfax Avenue between Seventh and Ninth streets, with an expected completion date in the first quarter of 2027.
RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson emphasized the importance of this project for enhancing regional mobility and ensuring the safety and reliability of the transit network. The reconstruction will involve the removal of existing infrastructure, including concrete, ballast, rail, and ties, which have been in place for decades.
Previous phases of the Downtown Rail Reconstruction Project were completed in 2024 and 2025, during which five intersections in the Downtown Loop were reconstructed. This ongoing work is part of RTD's broader strategy to maintain and improve transit services in the Denver metro area.
RTD Deputy CEO Angel Peña acknowledged the complexities involved in this phase of the project, particularly due to the high volume of rail and traffic movements through downtown Denver. The agency is committed to minimizing disruptions and providing clear alternatives for commuters and residents during the construction period.
Detailed information regarding traffic detours and alternative routes will be available on RTD's website, ensuring that affected stakeholders are informed about the changes. This proactive communication is crucial for local businesses and commuters who rely on the transit system for daily travel.
As RTD moves forward with this ambitious project, the agency aims to honor taxpayer trust and strengthen the foundation of the transit network that serves the Denver metro region. The successful execution of this reconstruction will not only enhance the safety and reliability of the light rail system but also support the long-term growth and development of the area.
