Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall today announced that the first round of funding for the EAGLE commuter rail project from the U.S. Department of Transportation is on its way to Colorado. This initial grant of $80 million will help complete the EAGLE P3 commuter rail system in the greater Denver area.
“These resources are another step toward completion of this important commuter rail system that will help ease traffic, create jobs, improve quality of life and help attract others to the Denver area,” said Bennet. “With these new connections across the area, Coloradans will enjoy an easier commute and less pollution, while also providing a boost to the regional economy.”
“With this funding, the federal government is making good on its promise to Denver-area citizens to help ensure the FasTracks Eagle project stays on schedule,” Udall said. “This is a crucial investment in the Denver metro region – it will create jobs, cut congestion and give commuters more transit options throughout the city. An improved connection to and from the airport will also help tourists enjoy our state’s capital city.”
Last year, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff signed a $1.03 billion Full Funding Grant Agreement in Olde Town Arvada. This is the first round of that funding for the EAGLE P3 project.
The Eagle P3 Project is a public-private partnership that will be paid for by a combination of federal, local and private-sector monies. The entire project includes the Gold Line that runs to Golden, the East Corridor that runs to Denver International Airport and part of the Northwest Corridor, which is planned to run to Longmont.