The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is currently testing trains on the East Line, a commuter rail line that will connect Denver’s Union Station with Denver International Airport. The East Line will begin service in 2016. The trains that will run on this line will require a site where the trains can be cleaned, maintained and stored. To that end, a commuter rail maintenance facility has been constructed at 5151 Fox Street in north Denver near the I-25 and I-70 interchange.

In addition to the East Line, the following yet to open rail lines will utilize the facility:

• The Gold Line will operate from Union Station to Arvada
• The Northwest Rail Line will operate from Union Station to downtown Longmont
• The North Metro Rail Line will run from Union Station and will eventually extend to northern Adams County

This week it was announced that the commuter rail maintenance facility was awarded LEED Gold certification for energy efficient design. The 230,000 square foot facility is part of the Eagle P3 project and was constructed by Fluor Corporation.

“This facility will benefit the community for years to come,” said Terry Towle Fluor’s Infrastructure president. “Fluor’s collaborative approach to project development, execution and delivery enhanced the sustainable features of this facility, which is recognized by the achievement of LEED Gold certification.”

Once all the rail lines open, the facility is expected to employ approximately 220 employees that consist of operators, mechanics and support staff.

Also housed at this property is the Operations Control Center that will serve as the nerve center for rail traffic, security and communication.

For more information on RTD’s rail system take a look at their website.