Colorado moves to establish new passenger rail service from Fort Collins to Pueblo by 2035

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) held a Transportation Commission Workshop on May 14, 2025, focusing on the ambitious plans for enhancing passenger rail service in the state. The meeting highlighted a long-term vision to connect Colorado with neighboring states New Mexico and Wyoming, while also establishing a new inner-city passenger rail service between Denver and Fort Collins by 2029, with full service extending to Pueblo by 2035.

Currently, Colorado lacks a dedicated inner-city passenger rail service, which is distinct from the existing commuter rail lines operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The proposed rail service aims to operate at a maximum speed of 79 miles per hour, making travel time from Fort Collins to Pueblo competitive with automobile travel, estimated at just over three hours.

A significant milestone was celebrated during the meeting, as the team acknowledged the successful demonstration train ride that took place last year, which ran from Denver Union Station to Downtown Longmont. This event marked a revival of passenger rail service on these lines, which had not been continuously operated since the 1960s. The demonstration garnered public enthusiasm, with community members cheering as the train passed, indicating strong local support for the initiative.

The workshop also emphasized the collaborative efforts between CDOT and various stakeholders, including the governor's office and Amtrak, to develop a comprehensive service plan. This plan includes a feasibility study that will be presented to the Federal Railroad Administration, showcasing the viability of the proposed rail service. Currently, public engagement efforts are underway to gather community feedback on the technical work completed thus far.

As Colorado continues to grow, the development of this passenger rail service is seen as a crucial step towards improving transportation options and enhancing connectivity within the state. The next phases of planning and public engagement will be vital in moving this project forward, ensuring it meets the needs of the communities it aims to serve.