$20 million for Denver transportation projects included in House bill

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) announced today that a comprehensive transportation spending bill that's expected to advance in the House this week -- known as the INVEST in America Act -- includes nearly $20 million to fund three key projects in the Denver area.

The funding was included at the request of DeGette who sought the additional federal dollars to help improve the safety and efficiency of Denver's transportation network.

Specifically, the legislation -- which the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is expected to vote on as early as tomorrow -- includes:

$5,530,000 to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to help consolidate rail tracks away from I-25 to provide additional space needed for the planned realignment of the I-25 transportation corridor through central Denver -- a project designed to improve access and safety along the heavily-used corridor.

$6,530,000 to the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to help fund the reconstruction and revitalization of the 16th Street Mall from Broadway to Market Street. The project, which seeks to create a safe, welcoming space in the heart of Denver's downtown, is designed to improve safety for pedestrians and vehicles in the area.

$7,930,000 to RTD to replace miles of existing light-rail track, switches, highblocks and concrete flatwork throughout Denver's light-rail system, much of which has deteriorated over the past 27 years since the light rail system first opened. According to RTD, the repairs are needed to continue safe and reliable operation of the city's light rail system and are considered a priority for the agency.
DeGette requested funding for the three Denver-area projects that are now included in the bill in April.

They were among a list of projects DeGette submitted to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee under the House's new rules that allow each member of Congress to request funding for specific projects in their district for the committee to consider.

A copy of the broader transportation bill that's being considered today by the committee is available here.

The provisions to provide funding for the three Denver-area projects requested by DeGette are located on pages 71 and 72.

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