The Front Range Passenger Rail District hosted a town hall this month, providing new details on a project scheduled to begin starter service connecting Northern Colorado and Denver by 2029.

Planners identified a preferred location for Fort Collins' future train station, a concrete step that moves the proposed rail line from a broad concept to a tangible plan with specific local impacts. This development offers a significant update for residents and regional commuters, setting the stage for initial service while raising critical questions about funding for the project's full vision.

What We Know So Far

  • The Front Range Passenger Rail District is considering the Midtown area near Drake and McClelland roads for its Fort Collins station, according to a report from the Coloradoan.
  • Initial "starter" service for the passenger rail line is scheduled to begin by 2029, with plans to offer three daily round trips between Fort Collins and Denver.
  • The overall project is expected to be a 10- to 15-year effort, with the initial phase focused on establishing a functional baseline service.
  • Planners are currently evaluating the project's route, potential station markets, service frequency, necessary infrastructure improvements, overall costs, and financing options.
  • Residents in Longmont, Boulder, and Westminster will have three opportunities in April to hear updates and provide feedback at public town halls, as reported by the Times-Call.
  • The district is asking the public to help choose a name for the future train service through an online survey.

Front Range Passenger Rail Fort Collins Station Location

The preferred site for the Fort Collins station is Drake Station, located in the city's Midtown corridor just north of Drake Road. This selection by project officials marks a major step in the local planning process, moving the project into a more defined phase of development for the northern anchor of the initial rail line.

According to the Coloradoan, the Drake Station site was chosen based on several key logistical and developmental criteria. The location offers a necessary straight stretch of track of at least 700 feet to accommodate the train platform. Planners also cited the site's accessibility and its potential to spur economic development and new housing opportunities in the surrounding Midtown area. Its proximity to Colorado State University was also noted as a significant advantage for serving a key demographic of potential riders.