Denver-Fort Collins Passenger Rail Eyed for 2029 Launch

Proposed service would connect major Colorado cities with stops in Boulder Valley.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:07pm

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a sleek metallic model train and polished steel railroad tracks, symbolizing the upcoming regional rail line.A conceptual still life representing the new passenger rail service connecting Denver and Fort Collins.Boulder Today

Colorado officials and BNSF Railway have negotiated a potential deal that could bring passenger rail service from Denver to Fort Collins, with several stops planned in the Boulder Valley region along the way. The proposed service could launch as early as 2029 if the deal is finalized.

Why it matters

Establishing a passenger rail link between the state's two largest population centers would provide a critical transportation option and help alleviate highway congestion between Denver and Northern Colorado. It could also spur economic development and tourism in the Boulder Valley communities along the route.

The details

Under the proposed framework, the passenger rail service would utilize existing BNSF freight rail tracks, with stops planned in communities such as Westminster, Broomfield, and Louisville. State transportation officials are working to secure funding and finalize the operational details with BNSF.

  • Negotiations between Colorado officials and BNSF Railway have been ongoing since 2024.
  • If the deal is finalized, the passenger rail service could launch as early as 2029.

The players

BNSF Railway Co.

A major freight rail company that owns the tracks that would be used for the proposed passenger rail service.

Colorado Department of Transportation

The state agency leading the negotiations and planning efforts for the potential passenger rail project.

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What they’re saying

“Connecting our state's two largest population centers by rail has been a priority for years, and we're excited to be making progress on this important project.”

— Shoshana Lew, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Transportation

What’s next

Colorado officials and BNSF Railway will continue negotiating the details of the deal, including securing funding and finalizing the operational plan, with the goal of launching the passenger rail service by 2029.

The takeaway

The proposed Denver-to-Fort Collins passenger rail service represents a significant investment in Colorado's transportation infrastructure, with the potential to improve connectivity, reduce highway congestion, and spur economic development in the Boulder Valley region.