The project team for the BRT line is currently preparing the final Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). This DEIS is scheduled to be available by mid-May for public and agency review, including public hearings that will begin in June. Other key milestones for this project are anticipated completion of the final environmental review by mid-2008, system design completion by 2012, and full operation by mid-2016. You can follow more detailed progress on the BRT system through the following link: http://www.rtd-fastracks.com/us36_1.

RTD only has $193.2 million available in the FasTracks budget to cover its share of the transit components for construction of the BRT system. However, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has not identified any resources to cover the roadway elements that would accommodate the BRT system, along with the planned expansion in automobile lanes. Efforts to address this funding shortfall have been speculative, at best, including the potential for packaging funding for US 36 in a future state-wide transportation financing initiative.

One promising new avenue is a proposal to target US 36 for special treatment through the new “Urban Partnership Agreement” program. This proposal incorporates a HOT-lane tolling system, something that the community will need to wrestle with. But, if we continue to pursue this opportunity and we are selected as a participant, we may be eligible for significant federal financial assistance for the corridor. I am supportive of the decision to apply for the “Urban Partnership Agreement” program, understanding that there are many details to consider if the federal government approves our application. In the meantime, please let me know what you think of this potential financing opportunity.