DUS is a critical link in the FasTracks transit network, serving as the main junction for RTD’s regional commuter rail, light rail and bus lines. It is very important for these connections to work effectively and efficiently in order to accommodate transfers between these transit services. At the same time, Denver has an interest in facilitating development around Union Station.

Without getting into too much detail, Denver believes it is important for 18th Street to pass through the area (it currently is blocked by existing railroad tracks behind Union Station) to encourage the development they envision. As a consequence, the current transit plan for the area calls for undergrounding the commuter rail lines and moving the light rail lines, above ground, about 2.5 blocks west of the commuter rail platforms. All bus services will arrive at a boarding area in-between the light rail and commuter rail stations.

Some interested parties, including respected transit advocates from the Boulder area, have expressed deep concern with this design. They argue that the transfer between the light rail and commuter rail stations is too long. Staff counters that the walk is only about 2.5 minutes on a moving sidewalk that pass between the two station areas, adjacent to the bus terminals. Critics also express concern with the lack of sufficient flexibility in an underground commuter rail terminal to accommodate future growth. Staff, on the other hand, believes the space is sufficient to cover foreseeable growth.

The RTD Board will soon have a chance to review the DUS master plan incorporating the above design elements. As I prepare for this debate, I encourage you to offer your own insights and policy suggestions.