Front Range Passenger Rail District – Longmont Times-Call

Historical transportation funding will benefit northwest metro region

While it’s only been five months since a new federal administration has taken office, there has been significant and historical funding opportunities for the transportation sector. At federal and state levels, bills have been passed regarding funding and climate change policy which will affect and improve transportation in the northwest region. We are indebted to our congressional members, Gov. Jared Polis and state legislators who have boldly advocated for climate change and multimodal transportation.

Recently passed Senate Bill SB 21-238 will create a Front Range Passenger Rail District. This bill would create a regional district, which would be required to work collaboratively with the Regional Transportation District (RTD). This would ensure interconnectivity in the northwest region.

House Bill HB 21-1186 will allow RTD to have greater flexibility to lower fares and take advantage of new revenue sources. The bill removed the requirement for RTD to cover 30% of operating costs through fare revenue and allows RTD to reduce fares to boost ridership, develop district properties for retail, commercial or residential purposes and contract with nonprofits and local governments to help lower operating costs.

Lastly, the Senate and House passed SB 21-260, a $5.3 billion transportation bill to fix roads and bridges, improve transit options, meet the state’s climate goals and future proof the state’s transportation system. This bill will drive Colorado’s economic comeback, establish a sustainable funding source to improve roads, invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and expand multimodal and transit options to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

This is a major step in the right direction for climate and multimodal transportation! Commuting Solutions stands ready to address the regional mobility and commuting needs of businesses and our communities through continued collaboration and partnerships to implement these transformative opportunities.

Audrey DeBarros

Executive Director of Commuting Solutions

Louisville