Denverites jammed on to RTD’s new southeast light rail line today, with standing-room-only on every available car.
Station platforms were crowded with more and more riders participating in the historic opening of the $880 million, 19-mile rail line from Union Station out to Lincoln Avenue. The weather was beautiful – sunny and warm – as riders welcomed the new transit extensions, which were completed under budget and ahead of schedule.
“I’m very excited,” said Kay Miller, of Lakewood, who was riding the new line with her parents out to Lincoln Station and back. “I’ve always been a huge fan of light rail and for RTD to continue expanding its lines is a very good idea.”
Miller lives within two blocks of RTD’s next light-rail expansion to the west.
Throngs of people gobbled up all the food in sight, including hot dogs and ice cream that RTD had served. Cries went out that three times more food should be ready for Saturday’s celebrations, in which the entire light rail system will be open to the public for free.
On Saturday, the stations will host parties with music, vendors and yes, more food. Various radio stations will be broadcasting along the line, as well as balloon artists, Polynesian dancers and canned food drives.
“I like it because me and my grandpa are really into trains,” said 8-year-old J.J. Pippin as he and his mother, Cari, rode the train to Lincoln Station.
Sunday’s trains will carry Broncos fans for the first time from as far away as Lincoln down to Invesco Field.
