TransPort, a rail, truck and air commerce hub that has for years been envisioned near Front Range Airport, is one step closer to becoming a reality. Its developer, The Schuck Corp., has submitted a framework development plan to the city of Aurora.
“It’s very consistent with our plans for the Northeast area,” said Aurora Mayor Ed Tauer. “It’s going to be a job center for the whole metro region over the next 20 years.”
Tauer said the general plan designates locations for major roads on the 6,000 acres of Schuck-owned land, and areas for industrial use, including railroad, manufacturing, warehouse and delivery companies.
The Schuck Corp. has long discussed plans for a hub near Front Range that joins rail, highway and air transportation.
“When they bring in a plan like this, you’re moving from a talking phase into a doing phase,” Tauer said. “This is the first step in going from an idea to building buildings and creating jobs.”
Union Pacific Railroad and Schuck Corp. officials signed a letter of intent last year calling for the railroad to move its freight operation. Dick Hinson, vice president of the Aurora Economic Development Council, said the parties are looking at how to make it happen.
“As companies move out (to TransPort), those companies will become the customers of Front Range Airport,” said Dennis Heap, the airport’s director.
Staff writer Kelly Yamanouchi can be reached at 303-820-1488 or kyamanouchi@denverpost.com.
