RTD’s Downtown Rail Reconstruction

At the end of August, Phase One of RTD’s Downtown Rail Reconstruction Project finished ahead of schedule, reopening key sections of the light rail system and restoring service on several downtown lines.

The $152 million project is rebuilding aging rail infrastructure in the Downtown Loop. Phase One focused on full-depth reconstruction at five major intersections: Broadway and Welton, 15th and California, 15th and Stout, 17th and California, and 17th and Stout. With that work done, the D, H, and L lines are back in service. More phases are coming over the next few years.

Much of this work is about setting downtown up for the long term. The original tracks have been there for over 30 years. The new infrastructure makes light rail safer and more reliable while supporting increased ridership. It also aligns with Denver’s transit-oriented development goals, encouraging higher-density housing and commercial growth within walking distance of rail stations. Paired with other major investments like the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit corridor, the project helps strengthen the connections between neighborhoods, jobs, and the heart of the city.

It’s a good move toward bringing people back downtown. Reliable transit makes it easier to get around and supports the kind of growth that keeps our city center active.

Photo credit: Paul Wedlake Photography (via RTD)