Doctor COG initiates funding for Colfax BRT and Sheridan safety studies

In a recent meeting of the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) Transportation Advisory Committee, members gathered to discuss the progress and future of the Quarter Planning Program, a vital initiative aimed at advancing key transportation projects across the region. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as committee members reviewed the program's objectives and the significant projects currently in the pipeline.

The Quarter Planning Program, which began as a pilot in 2022, is designed to support the implementation of projects outlined in the 2020-2050 Regional Transportation Plan. With a budget of $3 million allocated for the 2024 to 2027 cycle, the program aims to elevate various projects, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors and multimodal safety initiatives, to the next stage of planning and funding.

Among the highlighted projects is the Colfax BRT Next initiative, a collaborative effort involving the city of Aurora, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), and the Regional Transportation District (RTD). This project seeks to extend the BRT service along Colfax Avenue, with a timeline that includes public engagement and the selection of a preferred alternative by the end of the year. Jacob, a project manager from DRCOG, is overseeing the initiative, ensuring that community input shapes the development process.

Another critical project discussed was the Sheridan Safety Study, which spans a 10-mile stretch of Sheridan Boulevard. This area is identified as a high-injury network, and the study aims to reduce serious and fatal crashes through a collaborative approach involving six local governments and multiple counties. The project is currently in its initial phases, with plans to develop recommendations for improvements over the summer.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members reflected on the importance of these projects in enhancing regional transportation safety and efficiency. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, the Quarter Planning Program is poised to make a significant impact on the future of transportation in the Denver area. The discussions underscored a commitment to not only advancing infrastructure but also ensuring that the voices of local communities are heard in the planning process.