By Steve J. Nissen

On April 22 Denver took a broad step into the future with the opening of commuter rail service to DIA from Union Station. This is a major step to address our transportation needs as this is the first commuter (heavy rail) service of the RTD system in the region.

A ribbon-cutting event was held at DIA. The ‘snippers’ included Mayor Hancock, Mayor Hogan, Airport Manager Kim Day, RTD General Manager Dave Genova, Representative DeGette, Senator Bennett, representatives from the University of Colorado, several RTD Board members and many others as they cut the ribbon opening the University of Colorado A Line, as the line is called.

Free rides were offered on the train on Friday afternoon and all day Saturday. Thousands of people took advantage of the free rides. I experienced the ride from DIA to Union Station and in spite of there being eight stops on the line, the total time of 37 minutes was reassuring. I would give it an “A”. Regular fare-paying service began on Sunday April 24. The transit center at DIA is quite impressive. The trains arrive almost under the new Westin Hotel with a five-story escalator bringing passengers up to the airport check-in area. I remember years ago being impressed with two-story escalators at the airport in the Twin Cities, but I think we may have the king of all escalators at DIA.

I couldn’t help but remember the trepidation among the scores of citizens that participated in the Citizens Advisory Committee many years ago as we were planning for the first light-rail lines in Denver. The RTD Director at the time was totally frustrated at the indecision from the many persons involved. Finally it was decided to get something operating and the people would come. Come they did, and from that point on RTD couldn’t build the lines fast enough for the anxious riders. Three more lines will be opening in the near future adding travel convenience to scores of commuters along I-225, Westminster, and north areas.

I encourage everyone to give the A Line and the upcoming lines a try and see how they fit into your current travel plans of hassle etc.