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County hears plan for year-round Granby–Grand Lake connector tied to mountain passenger rail
Summary
Town and consultant officials proposed a year-round Granby–Grand Lake connector (initially three daily trips, state-funded) to link local commuter service, the new mountain passenger rail and Rocky Mountain National Park; commissioners discussed intergovernmental agreements and a modest local cost share.
Charles McCarthy, transit manager for the Town of Winter Park, and consultant Michael Cook described a proposed year-round connector service between Granby and Grand Lake designed to tie into the planned mountain passenger rail and to improve workforce and visitor access.
"This will be year round," McCarthy said, explaining the initial plan for three daily runs with the potential to expand to four if ridership warrants. The project would connect the Granby train depot, a transfer point near Agate and 5th, a stop near the Sun Communities development, and two stops in Grand Lake (one near Mountain Market and the recreation center).
Cook said the state (SB 230) would fund the bulk of operations — the grant structure was written for a five-year operating plan — and the county’s local share for the June–December startup period was budgeted at about $3,400 in the town’s IGA exhibit. ‘‘SB 230 will cover roughly 80% with 1a or local match covering 20%,’’ he said.
Commissioners asked about vehicle type, ridership data and how the town planned to coordinate with Grand Lake’s planned local shuttle; presenters said the town would use the existing Transdev operations contract for hourly rates and that the service could begin prior to mountain passenger rail to work out operating kinks.
The board discussed an IGA template the town will provide and the need for public outreach events in Granby and Grand Lake before a projected June 1 launch. Commissioners asked that the town finalize IGAs with the county and Grand Lake in time for the launch and to return with the IGA for legal review.
Ending: Presenters said they will bring the IGA and a public outreach schedule to the county; commissioners signaled general support and requested the exhibit showing the county share and options be circulated for review.
