Re: “FasTracks riders forecast on faster track,” Aug. 17 news story; and “Caution on latest FasTracks figures,” Aug. 19 editorial.
Much ado has been made about projected increases in ridership in the recent updated forecasts provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), including numerous misstatements of fact.
The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is tasked by the federal government to conduct computer-based modeling of future land use and transportation patterns to evaluate the potential effects of today’s policy choices, such as transportation investments, on future conditions. DRCOG’s model delivers information about possible outcomes including road congestion, transit ridership, and air quality. Because model outcomes directly impact federal funding, DRCOG’s model is regularly updated to reflect the latest data available and, moreover, meet rigorous federal testing requirements.
Higher ridership numbers are great news. The new numbers confirm communities are planning now for development around future FasTracks stations. In fact, seven communities recently updated their comprehensive plans to include more housing and jobs around FasTracks lines. Isn’t that what supporters of FasTracks voted for — a well-connected transit system supporting economic development, job creation, improved mobility and access to quality housing for all ages and incomes?
One “To the Point” comment in The Post connected our forecasts to the Tooth Fairy. No, our modeler is not the Tooth Fairy, but rather a mere mortal (and engineer), one held in such high regard he was called upon to help redefine the modeling standards by which the Federal Transit Administration awards transit funding.
The latest ridership numbers suggest the region views FasTracks as a key part of its future. And, as communities continue refining their plans to leverage this collective investment, don’t be surprised when the model produces different numbers in the future.
Jennifer Schaufele is executive director of the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG).
