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RTD '100 percent' confident G Line will be up and running by end of year

Posted at 5:18 PM, May 01, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-01 19:43:37-04

DENVER -- The RTD G Line, which connects Arvada and Wheat Ridge to Union Station, is still not operating as both communities continue to become attractive places to live in suburban Denver. 

The commuter rail line was supposed to open in fall 2016, but has been delayed because of ongoing technical issues. 

"I was driving around with my sister and she was wanting to take the train, so I had to drive all the way to Wadsworth and Colfax to catch the train. And I'm like, this is ridiculous. This was supposed to be running a long time ago," said Arvada resident Julie Billings. 

The same software problem that's prevented the crossing gates from working properly on the A Line to DIA is also used on the G line. 

RTD feels the problem is finally fixed and is waiting for federal approval so testing can begin. The testing would last anywhere from 45 to 90 days. 

"Based off the history with the A Line, why should people who live along the G Line have confidence this will ever operate safely?" asked Denver7 reporter Marc Stewart. 

"It's a huge infrastructure investment that we made. We're not going to not open the thing," said RTD spokesman Nate Currey. 

RTD insists tax payers are not paying for the extra expenses -- such as flag crews for the A Line, noting the burden is on the private partnership behind the commuter rail. 

"We're very confident the G Line will be up and running by the end of the year," said Currey. “At this point, it's definitely 100 percent."

It’s confidence that’s needed for a community that's growing. 

"I don't believe it. I'm skeptical," said Billings. 


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