RTD on track for light rail to Denver International Airport

DENVER - Travelers in the metro area are closer to being able to take light rail to Denver International Airport. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) announced Friday that the environmental approval for the FasTracks project to the airport has been completed.

During Friday's news conference, leaders from RTD and DIA shared their excitement.

"I don't even call it a project anymore," Phil Washington of the DIA FasTracks project said. "I call it an investment, an investment that's going to pay off huge dividends for our children and grandchildren, and conventions that come to town. This is so huge."

The route to DIA is part of the future East Corridor section of the FasTracks light rail system. The East Corridor commuter rail project is estimated to cost $1.3 billion. The line will run for 22.8 miles, starting in Denver's Union Station and extending to DIA. Along the route, the proposed stops are: 38th/Blake, Colorado, Central Park, Peoria and 40th/Airport.

Next summer, a company will be chosen to start construction on this project.

RTD expects construction on the East Corridor to begin in 2011, with opening day expected in 2015.

For more information on RTD's FasTracks projects, visit www.rtd-fastracks.com.