3 Things to Know
Welcome to Three Things to Know, a weekly roundup of important RTD information that should not be missed. Check this space every week to get the latest or learn something new about RTD’s system and its employees, and how we are making lives better through connections.
1.
Diligent work of RTD crews gets E and H lines up and running
On the afternoon of Jan. 24, a southbound E Line train near the Southmoor Station had an incident that affected the wheels of the lead car, rendering the train inoperable. Fortunately, the 17 customers onboard the train were able to safely deboard the vehicle and no injuries were reported.
The damage to the wheels of the train car made it impossible for the vehicle to return to the maintenance facility. During that time, RTD Rail Operations had to operate both north- and south-bound service on one track through the area until crews could mobilize equipment to recover the train car. While initial recovery was planned for Friday, Jan. 26, snow and wet conditions hindered those plans, and it was postponed until Monday, Jan. 29. This delay in recovery allowed for drier and safer conditions. On Monday, crews were able to lift the vehicle with a specialized jack so that the damaged wheel set could be replaced, and the vehicle was safely towed back to the maintenance facility. Bus Operations also supported the effort by providing bus shuttles for customers.
RTD was able to resume regular rail service at the start of the revenue day on Tuesday, Jan. 30. RTD thanks and appreciates its customers for their patience during the delays and is grateful for the commitment and hard work of employees who worked diligently to restore service as quickly as was possible. To hear General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson brief the RTD Board of Directors at their monthly meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 30, listen here at timepoint 1:46.
Crews prepare for mobilization of train car
2.
RTD commemorates Black History Month
Black History month is observed throughout the month of February to celebrate the contributions and achievements of African Americans to our nation. Public transportation and Black History Month are connected in many ways. The leadership and advocacy of African American people during the civil rights movement were and are integral in shaping public transportation into what it is today. Read the full story.
3.
Denver unveils first pavers on 16th Street Mall transitway
On Jan. 23, Denver unveiled the first granite pavers installed on the 16th Street Mall transitway in downtown Denver. The new pavers, installed between Larimer and Lawrence streets, are part of the 16th Street Mall renovation project that is increasing safety and mobility for all users and paving the way to a better transit experience.
A primary driver for the 16th Street renovation was the need to address the deteriorating granite paver system that was resulting in poor drainage, frequent disruption to the transit system and maintenance costs of more than $1 million annually.
The new pavers feature better surface friction to prevent slipping and improve pedestrian safety. The smaller size of the new pavers, along with a modified drainage system and different grout and mortar materials, will contribute to a longer life for the transitway.
The renovation includes moving transit lanes for the free MallRide service to the center of 16th Street, eliminating the median that runs between the buses on some blocks and creating wider pedestrian walkways and new amenity zones for leisure, local businesses, entertainment and tourism.
To experience the new granite walkway and transitway, visit the sample installation of the paver system, which is open for public viewing at the Outer Space at 16th and Welton streets.
New 16th Street Mall pavers