A move to build a new rail line in the Front Range of Colorado has taken a significant step forward.
Members of the Colorado State Legislature have voted in favor of a bill creating the Front Range Passenger Rail District as a necessary preliminary toward the construction of what is estimated to be a $2.5 billion project.
As envisioned, the new route would travel parallel to the north-to-south Interstate 25, serving as a passenger alternative in the fastest-growing part of the state, and could run from Fort Collins in the north to Pueblo in the south.
Supporters of the idea say President Biden’s proposal to spend up to $80 billion in rail expansion and improvements as part of his infrastructure bill could also partially spur the construction of the Front Range line.
As stated in the bill approved by Colorado lawmakers, the new Front Range Passenger Rail District will be empowered to raise taxes, the revenues of which can be used to build the line.
The district is expected to be officially established by early next year.
By Garry Boulard
