by Public Information
comments open from Febraury 21 until March 12

The new W Line, the first line of the FasTracks program —featuring 11 new stations, six Park-n-Rides, three Call-n-Rides and updated bus routes—took decades of planning, engineering and community outreach to complete. This is the final newsletter for the W Line, and the final shout out to say thank you to stakeholders, community members, businesses and local jurisdictions. Thank you for your time, patience and commitment to the success of the line.

W Line Grand Opening
Thank you to everyone who joined RTD in the Grand Opening weekend of the W Line. Nearly 5,000 patrons joined in on the festivities on Friday, April 26 and thousands more enjoyed the station parties along the line on Saturday, April 27. A special thank you goes out to our community members, stakeholders, and local jurisdictions who worked tirelessly to plan and organize their respective station parties along the line. We hope all enjoyed the event as much as we did and didn’t a get a sunburn!

If you would like to share any stories, pictures, or feedback about the event, please submit to Lindsey Smith at lindsey.smith@rtd-denver.com. We would love to hear from you! To see highlights from the weekend, please visit our Flickr webpage.

Community Outreach
The success of the W Line is a testament to the dedication, patience, and communication put forth from the community, businesses and local jurisdictions. Through this coordination, RTD built community relations to ensure safety, keep the public informed, and minimize construction impacts throughout the project. The outreach efforts were impressive and include the following:
• Organized 142 public presentations, including “Safety Roadshows” (photo above).
• Held more than 600 external meetings at schools, neighborhood associations, senior centers, government offices and other locations.
• Distributed nearly 15,200 informational door hangers/fliers about construction, safety, tree removal and other issues.
• Sent more than 51,000 email blasts describing construction impacts.
• Coordinated nearly 100 public tours for the media, residents, businesses, elected officials and other stakeholders.
• Disseminated more than 8,000 fact sheets detailing best safety practices, environmental impacts and business access.
• Wrote more than 60 news releases with project overviews, goals, timelines and expected impacts.
• Delivered a monthly e-newsletter to more than 5,000 subscribers for the past 84 months – since June 2006.
• Fielded more than 5,200 public comments.
• Curated a database of 10,531 individuals who requested W Line updates.

Construction Update
Work continues on the Sheridan Garage and will be complete by early summer. Crews will work to finalize the remaining items including:
o Complete elevator installation
o Complete painting scope of work
o Continue landscaping
o Continue installation of security
o Signalization of the 10th Ave. and Sheridan Blvd. intersection
o Curb, gutter and asphalt constructed on 10th Ave & Ames St.
There may still also be a few construction items that will take place, and we will keep you informed via email notices and the website.

Final Farewell
We appreciate your support and understanding during the construction of this monumental project and hope we provided accurate and timely information during this time. To submit comments/inquiries or for service information regarding light rail, buses, or the addition of the call-n-Rides, please call 303-299-6000 or visit RTD’s new and enhanced website. It has been our pleasure to work with each and every one of you, and we wish you the best!

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter.

by Kenneth Maenpa, Airport Director
comments open from April 20 until May 9

For the past couple of years, Rocky Mountain Metro Airport (RMMA) has been busy with planning and design for the projects occurring this year.

The need to extend the Runway Safety Area (RSA) on the west end of Runway 11L/29R is driven by the FAA design requirements for the type of aircraft that operate at RMMA. This requirement is 1,000 feet of safety area beyond the runway end, and currently, the RSA is 600 feet in length. In 2006, the U.S. Department of Transportation Appropriations Act required operators of all airports nation-wide that are federally funded and obligated, to comply with FAA regulatory requirements for RSA’s by September 30, 2015.

The project will consist of two phases. The first phase commenced this past fall and involves the relocation of the intersection at Highway 128 and Interlocken Loop. This intersection will move to the northwest to allow for the full expansion of the RSA. The second phase of the project will involve earthwork and relocation of the airport navigational aids, which will begin in this summer.

by Public Information
comments open from Febraury 21 until March 12

Tick-tock, tick-tock. As time inches closer to opening day on April 26, RTD is rapidly checking items off the to-do list. By the end of February, integrated testing will be complete. At the beginning of March, RTD will officially own the line and operational testing will begin. By mid-March all artwork on the line will be commissioned and in fabrication.

2011 Quality of Life Study
RTD released its sixth annual FasTracks Quality of Life Study. The report focuses on the effect the FasTrack program has in areas where there is service, along with areas where current and scheduled construction is taking place.
A few key discoveries from the study found that the number of FasTracks directly-supported jobs increased 11 percent from 2005 to 2011, the taxable retail sales for RTD increased 0.7 percent from 2010 and overall ridership increased 0.4 percent.

Further, the report showed light rail times remain five minutes faster than drive time on the Southeast and Southwest lines, the use of Park-n-Rides remained consistent, and RTD provides 31 percent of destinations with high-frequency transit options.

RTD is constantly looking to improve the district and offer the best transit service in the country. For further information or to view the 2011 Quality of Life Report please visit our RTD website.

Artwork commissions on the West Line
West Line began the process of commissioning public art for the light rail passenger stations in October. By mid-March, artists for all designated locations will be selected. In a three-part series, we will feature a brief biography of each artist commissioned on the West Line.
>> Jose Antonio Aguirre will lend his color pallet to Knox Station
>> John Rogers will put a creative twist at the Lakewood•Wadsworth Station
>> Mike Squared Mosiacs will add a unique, cultured perspective to the Garrison Station
>> Benjamin Ball and Gaston Nogues are working on a creative piece for Jeffo-Golden Station

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

Larry Benshoof, Road & Bridge Director
comments open from February 19 until March 10

Overview
The Road & Bridge Division is currently responsible for snow removal on 2,924 lane miles of paved roads and 695 lane miles of gravel roads in the unincorporated areas of the County. One lane mile is a 10 foot wide section of road one mile long. State highways, private roads and newly constructed roads that have not been accepted by formal resolution of the Board of County Commissioners are not included.

Forecasting and Preparations
The Road and Bridge Division is on a twenty-four hour, early-warning alert system. Supervisors utilize local, national, and customized weather forecasts and databases in order to anticipate and be prepared for the intensity of storm forecasted. Equipment is made ready for sanding and plowing during normal working hours for a forecasted storm.

Each equipment operator is assigned a specific route for snow removal and sanding. Assignment of roads to a route is determined by area supervisors based on priority of the road as defined below and for the most efficient utilization of equipment. There are currently 82 designated snow routes in unincorporated Jefferson County.

Snow Removal Procedures
Plowing and sanding operations will take place in four phases during a storm. The order in which streets are plowed in each phase is based on the following definitions of priority:
>> Priority 1 - Main arterial streets that provide for high traffic volumes.
>> Priority 2 - Major subdivision collectors, school zones and school bus routes.
>> Priority 3 - Residential or other local roads that carry moderate to low traffic volumes.
>> Priority 4 - Cul-de-sacs or other dead-end roads carrying very low traffic volumes.

Phase I: Initial opening of all Priority 1 through 3 streets in that order. Severity of the storm may delay response time for Priority 3 streets due to the fact that initial opening of major arterial streets requires that multiple lanes be plowed in each direction.

Phase II: Plowing and sanding of problem roads having steep inclines, curves, bridges or overpasses. Widening of any Priority 1 through 3 streets deemed necessary. Repeat plowing of all streets initially opened as snow continues to accumulate.

Phase III: Removal of packed snow and ice on all Priority 1 through 3 streets where possible and deemed necessary as snowfall accumulation stops. Plowing and sanding operations on Priority 4 streets will take place as resource availability allows. It could be several days after the snowstorm has ended before Priority 4 streets are initially plowed. Intermittent sanding as necessary by road priority.

Phase IV: Storm event is over. Continuation of widening operations to improve safe travel and prepare for additional accumulation during subsequent storms.

Application of Traction Materials: Sanding of most roads is limited during heavy snowfall because the sand is quickly covered and then removed as additional plowing occurs. When applying sand, special attention is given to sections of the road network posing specific safety concerns. These include, but are not limited to, areas such as: school and hospital zones, police and fire stations, bridges and overpasses, turn lanes, acceleration or deceleration lanes, approaches to intersections that are stop sign or signal controlled, curves, steep grades, heavy traffic areas, areas of ice accumulation, speed bumps, and areas with other known problems.

Snow Removal Clarifications

>> Driveways: Driveway approaches affected during Phases I, II, and III are the responsibility of the property owner or resident to clear. When snow removal or widening in Phase IV is being carried out, driveways that were previously opened by the homeowner will not have additional snow plowed into them.

>> Mailboxes and Fences: Mailboxes, newspaper delivery boxes or fences installed alongside the traveled roadway are at the risk of the owner. If an operator strikes a mailbox with a plow, the operator will report it and we will repair it as soon as possible. Mailboxes and fences damaged by snow load during normal plowing operations are not the responsibility of the County. If a mailbox is struck by a plow, it will be replaced with a standard rural mailbox. Postal regulations require residents to clear snow in front of mailboxes to allow for mail delivery.

>> Snow Pushed onto County Street or Right-of Way: The practice of pushing or throwing snow or ice onto or across Jefferson County streets endangers the traveling public as well as county snowplow operators. Jefferson County residents as well as private contractors may receive a warning and/or summons for snow or ice pushed onto County streets and rights-of-way from sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, etc. Example: When breaking up ice from driveway or flow line of curb, do not throw it out into the street where it can be struck by a vehicle; we encourage citizens to blow and shovel snow and ice onto their grass.

>> Vehicles Parked or Abandoned: Streets on which vehicles have been abandoned or otherwise parked so as to restrict the safe and continuous operation of snow removal equipment may not be plowed until those vehicles are removed.

>> Requests for Emergency Snow Removal: All requests for emergency snowplowing should go to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Dept. If the request is valid, they will notify the Road & Bridge Division and we will respond as soon as possible.

by Public Information
comments open from January 23 until February 11

The City of Wheat Ridge is partnering with Jefferson County to widen a portion of 32nd Avenue--Braun Court to Wright Court. Construction on this project is scheduled to start on January 24, 2013.

What: Public Meeting for 32nd Avenue Widening, from Braun Ct to Wright Ct.

When: January 23, 2013; starting at 5:00 pm

Where: Applewood Shopping Center, Former Old Chicago building, lower level – located at 3258 Youngfield Street, Wheat Ridge CO 80033

Who: Presented by Concrete Works of Colorado, general contractor

Purpose: Present scope of work and schedule of roadway construction

Get more information about the meeting on the City of Wheat Ridge website.

by Public Information
comments open from January 16 until February 4

In less than four months and counting the much anticipated West Rail Line will open to the public—the first rail line to open under RTD’s FasTracks program. But until then, integrated testing continues as the West Rail Line works toward safety certification.

What's in a Name?
The rail line to the west has been called West Corridor, West Rail Line, West Line, W Line, and W Rail. Which is the correct name? Technically, all are right. Materials referring to the line as West Corridor were produced as early as 1978 (in early studies) and as late as 2011 (well into construction). At that time the name changed to West Rail Line. However, as we move into operation, most people refer to the lines by their letter designation.

In this case, it is the W Line, similar to the C, D, E, F and H Lines. Officially deemed the “W” Rail (pictured above), the line takes on a new identity that you will begin to see more and more leading up to and through Opening Day. The upcoming 6th Avenue bridge lighting event is the first time you will see this new identity, but certainly not the last.

West Rail Line Bicycle Lockers
The West Rail Line is set to open April 26, 2013 and bicycle lockers will be available for lease at the following new stations: Decatur-Federal, Sheridan, Lakewood-Wadsworth, Oak, and Jeffco-Golden. You can put your name on the waiting list for a locker at one of these locations by calling the Civic Center Station customer service desk at 303-299-2288. Lockers are currently available with no waiting at the existing Federal Center Station. Bicycle lockers cost $30 for a six-month renewable lease with a one-time padlock fee of $20. An RTD-issued padlock must be used on these bike lockers. First time renters will need to turn in a lease agreement in person at the Boulder Transit Center, Civic Center Station, or Market Street Station. Lease agreements are available at each of these customer service locations.

RTD Introduces Smart Cards
The wait is over. On January 1, RTD introduced a whole new way to ride for CollegePass and EcoPass customers. The first phase of RTD’s smart card rollout brings several benefits, including unlimited rides on regular bus and light rail with just one tap every time you ride. Through mid-January, RTD had smart card ambassadors at light rail stations during rush-hour to demonstrate how to use the new cards. Later in 2013 RTD will convert all fares and passes to smart card technology with the introduction of the MyRide card for the general public.

Additionally, beginning with the opening of the West Rail Line, RTD is working toward making riding even more convenient on all lines by installing the capability for patrons to purchase rides with credit cards. Visit our website for more details on the smart card.

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

by Public Information
comments open from December 18 until January 6

As opening day draws near, there is still much to be done along the West Rail Line—including safety outreach, testing, and completing construction on both the Sheridan and Lakewood-Wadsworth parking garages.

6th Avenue Bridge Lights Up
On January 23, 2013, RTD will host a ceremonial lighting of the 6th Avenue Bridge. Join us for this exciting event as the switch is pulled and the bridge is illuminated for the first time.

The 6th Avenue Bridge, designed by David Evans and Associates and built by Denver Transit Construction Group’s subcontractor Edward Kraemer and Sons, will be lit by LED lights that are attached to the 44 cables that span the bridge. Once lit, the lights will remain on, making this signature bridge even more spectacular. This ceremony marks the end of construction activities and signifies the start of testing, as well as serves as the start of the countdown to Grand Opening of the West Rail Line, scheduled on April 26, 2013. Watch your email for more details on the ceremony.

Civil and System Construction is Complete. Why Aren’t we Open?
Even though the vast majority of construction is complete on the West Rail Line, there are three phases of testing that need to be complete to ensure safe and reliable operations of the system prior to opening.

Static or Local Testing is currently taking place where individual elements or groups of elements are tested. This ensures that each crossing gate, each signal, every emergency telephone, etc all are working as designed. The functionality of each of these elements and hundreds more need to all be safety certified prior to carrying passengers.

Integrated Testing will begin in early January, where a light rail vehicle is brought out to make sure that all the systems work together throughout the corridor. For example, as a vehicle approaches a crossing, does the light rail signal system interface properly with the traffic signal system and initiate the crossing gate sequence to operate properly for the train approaching, or if there is another train on the track ahead, does the light rail signal caution the train to proceed slowly or stop. All these elements are tested from early January to the end of February.

Operator Training and Schedule Testing is the final phase. At that point, the line is turned over to RTD operations, where light rail supervisors and operators are trained to operate the West Rail Line – which is different than other lines RTD currently has in operations, due to the large number of at-grade crossings. After the operators are trained and know the line – over a 3-4 week period – the schedules will be tested to make sure they operate as written. After staff is trained on the line – in late March to early April, trains will run on the actual schedule as if we were carrying passengers. For the final week to 10 days prior to opening, we integrate the West Rail trains into the existing system through the Central Platte Valley, taking all West Rail trains into Union Station. Since trains from the Southeast and Southwest also run along there, the test will be to make sure that the timing works as planned.

Opening a light rail line is not like a highway that can open as soon as construction is complete. Even though the next few months seem like a long time for us to wait, the systems and operations group are hard at work under tight deadlines to open on April 26, 2013!

Safety Reminder
The West Rail Line wants to remind you to BE SAFE near all construction and light rail activity. Soon you will begin to see light rail trains operating along the line for testing so it is important to take all necessary precautions at the crossings and along the tracks to make sure that you remain safe. Below are important safety tips for you and your family to remember when you are near the light rail tracks:
• Stop, look both ways, and listen before crossing and railroad tracks. The trains are very quiet and can approach from both directions.
• Never play near or on the light rail tracks. Switches on the tracks move automatically and can cause injury. You would also be breaking the law by trespassing.
• Before crossing light rail tracks, make sure the crossing gates are all the way up and that there are no flashing lights or sounding bells.
• Keep yourself and all objects away from the wires overhead.
• Get off your bike, scooter, or skateboard before you cross the tracks. Your wheels can get caught in the tracks.
• Always PAY ATTENTION. Do not let your cell phones, headphones, texting, or game-playing divert your attention.
• Never chase a moving train.

We urge everyone to stay away from the tracks, overhead wires, and all elements of the light rail system as we start into the testing phases for the West Rail Line prior to opening to the public on April 26, 2013.

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

by Public Information
comments open from Nov. 19 until Dec. 8

As construction winds down, other aspects of the West Rail Line are gearing up and racing full speed ahead as we head toward opening on April 26, 2013. Testing is underway and will continue through spring of 2013; selection of artists for the line is progressing quickly; and construction on the Sheridan and Lakewood•Wadsworth garages is on-going.

Final Train Schedules Set
Over the past few months, RTD service planners have been holding public meetings and realigning bus schedules to mesh with light rail service on the West Line when it starts up next April. Another important element to the service planning is how often the trains will run.

Since 2003, RTD has been planning on trains every 5 minutes during rush hours (6 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m.) between downtown and the Federal Center. Taking into account a number of elements, the service has been adjusted to every 7.5 minutes during rush hours.

• Instead of two car trains, three car trains will be used so capacity of the rail line remains the same.
• We are able to carry the same number of passengers, with fewer impacts to the community and still provide excellent service.
• Service between the Federal Center and Jefferson County Government Center will remain at 15 minute intervals, both in rush hour and throughout the day.
• Late night service throughout the line will be every 30 minutes.

Public Art Update
In October, the West Rail Line began the process of commissioning artists to design public art for the West Rail Line. An art selection committee – made up of artists, art administrators and community representatives – was formed to select artists for each of the stations along the line.

The committee has selected artists for the three stations so far and continues to work toward having artists on board for all stations. The majority of the artwork won’t be installed by opening day, but is expected to all be in place by the end of 2013.

Artists selected to date include:
• Jose Antonio Aguirre, who will lend his color pallet to Knox Station;
• John Rogers, who will put a creative twist on the Lakewood•Wadsworth Station; and
• Mike Squared Mosiacs, who will add a unique perspective to the Garrison Station.
• The final artist for the Jeffo-Golden Station will be selected at by the end of November.
• The next series of commissions include Sheridan, Lamar, Red Rocks College, and the Kipling Bridge followed by the rest of the stations.

Artwork is a great way to show off a community, make stations memorable and unique and deter graffiti. Challenges in public artwork include making sure that each piece is durable and easily maintainable, that it can withstand 100 degree temperature fluctuations and intense sun, all the while reflecting each community.

Safety Roadshow Recap
The Safety Roadshows were a great success. The West Rail PI team, in conjunction with the City of Lakewood, Operation Lifesaver and West Metro Fire visited elementary schools in Lakewood within four blocks of the rail line to demonstrate fundamental pedestrian and bicycle safety. In addition, RTD and Operation Lifesaver reached out to two more schools in Denver. The roadshows in Lakewood were part of the “Safe Routes to School” grant that Lakewood received for pedestrian safety training and education programs for schools near the West Rail Line.

RTD provided a mock light rail grade crossing complete with flashing lights, moving gates and ringing bells to demonstrate how to safely cross the tracks, Operation Lifesaver provided general train safety information, the City of Lakewood demonstrated how to use hand signals when riding a bike, and West Metro fire demonstrated how to properly fit and wear a helmet.

The elementary schools included in the program were Eiber, Molholm, Jeffco Open, St.Bernadette, Cowell, and Fairview reaching nearly 2,000 students. School outreach will continue next spring prior to the West Rail Line opening

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

by Public Information
comments open from October 16 until November 4

October's crisp and dry air has kept construction on the West Rail Line moving forward. Crews are keeping busy and daily progress is visible.

SAFETY ROAD SHOWS
The West Rail PI Team has been on the road reaching out to local elementary schools on fundamental pedestrian and bicycle safety. In August 2012, the City of Lakewood received a "Safe Routes to School" grant from CDOT for safety education. RTD and Lakewood developed the "Safety Road Shows" in conjunction with Operation Lifesaver, Bicycle Colorado and West Metro Fire District as a major element of the grant.

The road shows promote the basic, but most important message to "Stop, Look and Listen" before crossing rail tracks or roadways. Through a forward-thinking approach, RTD developed a mock automated rail crossing for hands-on training that includes flashing lights, bells and moving gates. Other exhibits include a helmet fitting station, bicycle hand signal training and rail safety education. Thus far, the road show has stopped at, Molholm Elementary and St. Bernadette's school. A visit to Jeffco Open School and Eiber Elementary are scheduled later this month.

In addition, RTD will be taking the road show to Fairview and Cowell elementary schools in Denver before the end of the year. If your group is interested in a safety presentation, please contact us to schedule a presentation.

PARKING STRUCTURES

Sheridan
By the looks of the Sheridan Boulevard and 10th Avenue site, it is apparent West Rail Line construction crews are knee deep into the parking structure south of the station. On the administrative side, the project has secured roughly 90 percent of its subcontractors and is on-track to meet or exceed the goal of 51 percent of the work performed by Small Business Enterprise (SBE) firms.

Construction activities will continue to accelerate throughout the fall and winter as crews tackle the bulk of forming and pouring concrete for the foundation and eventually move toward constructing the elevated decks. On and off-site electrical, plumbing and fire/sprinkler-related work are also on the agenda during this time.

Part and parcel of any construction activities during this time of year, construction crews are anticipating inclement weather and taking appropriate measures to ensure winter conditions do not negatively impact the construction schedule. Due to the demanding nature of the West Rail Line schedule, no delays in the construction schedule are possible. In the event of a major snow event, any working hours missed will be made up with night and weekend work for the duration of the project.

Lakewood•Wadsworth
The Lakewood•Wadsworth parking structure continues to come together as crews continue with the "finishing touches" of the garage. Crews continue painting and installing interior lights for the structure and the sprinkler/fire suppression system work is currently complete. The next major interior element of the parking structure will include installation of steel for the stairs and elevators, and pouring concrete for the stairs.

The exterior facade of the garage is moving into the final stages as installation of the architectural "spandrels" are completed and crews move into preparations for installing the "curtain wall," which includes the glass window "storefront" of the building and the metal mesh panels.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Civil construction (DTCG)

• West Rail crews are working on a few remaining activities on the Colfax, Sheridan and Consolidated Mainline bridges.

• Storm water drainage work at North Avenue, Sheridan Boulevard and Zuni Street will continue through October.

• Crews will continue to install elevators, stairs and railings at most of the West Rail Line stations.

• Irrigation and landscape work continues at all stations and along roadway shoulders.

• Construction activities along the bike paths will be completed in October.

Systems construction (BBRI)

• Overhead Catenary punchlist

• Electrical testing at Traction-powered substations

• Signals system punchlist

• Preparing for integrated testing

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

by Public Information
comments open from October 4 until October 23

The contractor will be repairing curb and gutter and performing additional concrete/slab work on the roundabout at the Johnson Road entrance of the Jefferson County Government Center. A detour and flaggers will be in place to direct two-way traffic to the west side lane of Jefferson County Parkway. The detour is expected to last until Friday, October 12.

Parking at the court-side parking lot will be open. It is suggested to enter from the north side - Jefferson County Parkway via Johnson Road. Exiting traffic will be permitted to exit Jefferson County Parkway heading north.

Please drive safely through this area and be prepared for staged equipment, materials, and workers. Contact Mark Winnen or Dixie Shear at Jefferson County with questions, 303-271-8495.

by Public Information
comments open from July 24 until August 12

With the groundbreaking of the Sheridan Station Parking Garage, all elements of the West Rail Line are now under some type of construction.

Safety Reminder
With school out and more people walking in the neighborhoods, it’s important to remember to stay away from construction and the light rail system in general. Observe and follow all warning signs to prevent accidents and warn your children to do the same. Stay off the light rail tracks, unless you are crossing at an intersection. Remote switch testing and on-going switch operations can cause serious injuries for pedestrians on the trackway, even without a train coming.
Construction is almost complete, but safety hazards will remain as the light rail system is powered and testing of all systems is conducted later this year. Following that phase, light rail trains will begin running on the tracks, and gates at the crossings will begin to move - presenting a new set of hazards. Remember the basics – STOP, LOOK and LISTEN. They will serve you well in the future as West Rail Operations is introduced into the community.

Tour de FasTracks – West Rail Ride
As construction of the West Rail Line draws to a close, the project team is planning the first of many celebration events. Tour de FasTracks-West Rail Ride, will be held on Saturday, September 15, 2012. The family friendly bicycle event will kick-off at Oak Station and end at the Decatur•Federal Station. There will also be an option for more advanced cyclists to begin at the Jefferson County Government Center•Golden Station. Participants will enjoy a fun-filled activity center and BBQ at the end of the ride.
Join us and experience the newest bike paths while getting to know the terrain of the future West Rail Line. RTD will be handing out operation and safety information and our stakeholders will be manning stations with information relative to their jurisdictions.

Parking Structures
Lakewood•Wadsworth
Work on the Lakewood•Wadsworth parking structure is quickly approaching the one-third completion mark, and the project is moving along nicely as utility efforts continue and concrete and steel are placed on levels above the ground floor. In addition to the main structure, crews are now addressing the electrical, security and storage rooms and the components for the stairs and elevators. Swinerton Builders is happy to boast an accident-free record for the project and 167 employees have completed safety orientation. We look forward to a continuation of the already successful efforts on this structure.

Sheridan
On the bright and sunny morning of Friday, June 29, Mayors Michael B. Hancock and Bob Murphy of Denver and Lakewood respectively, RTD Board members Matt Cohen and Angie Malpiede along with Swinerton representatives, other elected officials and area partners welcomed residents and stakeholders to commemorate the beginning of construction activities for the Sheridan Station Parking Structure. Phil Washington, General Manager of RTD, was on hand to remind the crowd of the significant economic investment the Sheridan Parking Structure and West Rail Line represent. $295 million have been contributed to the local economy and more than 600 jobs have been produced throughout construction of the West Rail Line. Praise was also given to VP of Swinerton Builders Colorado, Scott Conrad, who committed to exceeding the 51 percent Small Business Enterprise participation goal for the project. Debra Bustos, Director of Real Estate for the Urban Land Conservancy, highlighted the larger effect such a significant investment can make to the shape and character of the community. Calling it a “catalyst investment,” she proposed this site has the opportunity to leverage development of additional amenities in the area and provide access to jobs for untold numbers of families and residents.
The building permit for the Sheridan Garage was recently issued by the City and County of Denver and construction efforts can now begin. Earthwork, drilling and forming caissons as well as utility improvement efforts will begin in earnest the first week of August, and you will soon see visible progress on this site.

Construction Update – Area 1 (Jeffco Government Center to Federal Center)
Current and Ongoing Activities
Current and Ongoing Activities
• Final activities at the Jefferson County Government Center include demolishing the temporary construction access and completing roadwork near the entrance to the facility.
• Road construction at Ulysses Street is complete and Ulysses Street north of 6th Avenue is open. Installation of the guardrail along 6th Avenue in this area will begin soon.
• Work continues on Union Boulevard between 6th Avenue and 4th Avenue and the on and off ramps of 6th Avenue at Union Boulevard. Lane closures on the ramps and Union Boulevard may be in place during daytime hours.
• Final irrigation and landscape work continues in Area 1.

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

Larry Benshoof, Road & Bridge Director
comments open from July 12 until July 31

Across the State, thousands of volunteers clean adopted stretches of highway. They have taken responsibility for their environment and become part of one of the most effective community volunteer efforts nationwide!

Who can adopt a highway?
Churches, scout groups, employee and retired employee associations, non-profit organizations, service clubs ... any group that takes pride in Jeffco.

Adopting groups are proud of their contribution to their community and confident their efforts are increasing public awareness about litter control.

How does the program work?
This program consists of a volunteer group picking litter off the right-of-way of a section of road they have adopted.
>> That section of road is approximately two miles in length.
>> There are two pickups required each year with a two-year commitment.
>> Orange safety vests, trash bags and trash bag pickup are provided by Jefferson County.
>> Warning signs alert motorists when a litter pick-up is in progress.
>> Permanent signs are placed on the right-of-way indicating the name of the adopting group.

If you are interested in adopting a stretch of highway in Jefferson County, please visit the Road and Bridge website to view the list of available segments.

Contact Heather Rhode at (303) 271-5220 for more information on this fun and rewarding program!

by Public Information
comments open from June 15 until July 4

The countdown has begun. RTD will open the West Rail Line to the public on April 26, 2013, eight months ahead of the originally scheduled opening date. The first FasTracks project to be completed, the West Rail Line is part of RTD’s current $4.2 billion investment in the region. Presently, 50 miles of new rail line are in construction or under contract to begin construction.

The West Rail Line is approximately 93 percent complete. Major construction will be finalized later this summer, followed by completion of the signals and communications system in late 2012. Construction on the Wadsworth and Sheridan parking structures will continue through early March 2013, and RTD Light Rail Operations will conduct final testing and operator training through the spring of 2013. Watch the countdown to opening day on the West Rail Line website.

West Rail Line Bike Event
The “Name the Bike Event” contest concluded on Friday, June 8. With more than 100 submissions, there were too many creative names to pick just one. Roll out the bike bells and toot your horn for the official name of the bike event— “Tour de FasTracks – West Rail Ride!" Thank you to John Golly for submitting “Tour de FasTracks” and Jennifer Wieczorek for submitting “West Rail Ride.”

Not only do we have an official name for the event, we also have a date set. Mark your calendars for September 8, 2012. The designated route will kick-off at Oak Station and end at Decatur•Federal Station. However, for the more intermediate and advanced cyclists, there will be an option to begin at the Jefferson County Government Center•Golden Station. Tour de FasTracks – West Rail Ride will be a leisurely ride on some of the newly constructed bike paths along the West Rail Line.

Construction Update - Area 1 (Jeffco Government Center to Federal Center)
Current and Ongoing Activities
• Drainage work at Ulysses Street is complete and road construction is underway. Ulysses Street will be closed between 6th Avenue and just south of Mt. Vernon Road until the new roadway is fully constructed.
• Work continues on Union Boulevard between 6th Avenue and 4th Avenue; and the on and off ramps of 6th Avenue at Union Boulevard. Lane closures on the ramps and Union Boulevard may be in place during daytime hours.
• Final irrigation and landscape work continues in Area 1.

Information contained in this post adapted from the FasTracks newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter or get the latest information, see the FasTracks West Corridor website.

by Maria D'Andrea, P.E., Traffic/Transportation Engineer
comments open from June 1 until June 20

Jefferson County pays to maintain and provide power to approximately 700 overhead street lights. The majority of these are located on arterial streets such as Kipling Parkway or Bowles Avenue. Lights are maintained by Xcel Energy, Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA) or, if related to an intersection with a highway or freeway, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Xcel Energy and IREA charge the county a monthly flat fee for each overhead street light (depending on the wattage). This fee is charged regardless of whether the light is operating or not. Street lights in neighborhoods are typically paid for by the area Home Owner’s Association (HOA) under similar arrangements.

You can help the county by reporting streetlight outages in your neighborhood. Before calling or going on-line, you’ll need some basic information.
• Location of the light: for example, NW corner of Simms Street and Marlowe Avenue
• Type of malfunction: is the light burnt out, blinking or malfunctioning in some other way
• For Xcel Energy, each of their light poles has a Facility Tag on it. This is typically a small plaque or sticker of black letters/numbers on a yellow background. Writing this number down and reporting it helps Xcel to respond more quickly to the problem. If there is no Facility Tag, write down the address of the nearest property.

Knowing which company to contact depends on the location of the street light. A general guide you can follow is:

• Xcel Energy
o If the light is located north of US 285 and/or east of C-470: call 1-800-895-4999 (Prompt 3)
OR
o You can report online using Xcel’s street light outage form.

• IREA
o If the light is located south of US 285 and west of C-470 or in the areas along I-70 on the western edge of the County, call 303-688-3100.

• CDOT
o For street lights at interchanges or along freeways such as C-470, I-70, US 285, SH 93, etc., call 303-757-9367.

by John Wolforth, Planning and Zoning Director
comments open from April 24 until May 13

One of the functions of the Jefferson County Planning and Zoning Division is to provide addressing services for all of Jefferson County. The Addressing Section’s services are critical not only for citizens but for local jurisdictions, departments and emergency responders. The Addressing Section is responsible for assigning, maintaining and approving all addresses, street and road names in Jefferson County. The assignments are to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Jefferson County.

One of the most important aspects and importance of proper addressing in the county is how closely the Addressing Section works with emergency services. All areas of the Sheriff’s Department use the address database. It is important for court documentation, warrants, arrests and investigations. We also work with local emergency responders and fire districts within Jefferson County. When responding to emergencies it is important that responders are able to quickly and efficiently locate citizens to provide services based on the accuracy of their addresses. We are constantly working with citizens, fire districts, emergency responders and other departments in the county to properly assign addresses county-wide. This may include naming roads that were previously unnamed, assigning new addresses when homes are built, changing addresses as appropriate when they do not meet current standards for assigning addresses and more.

In addition to the services you receive from emergency responders, an address can provide assistance in other aspects of business and personal interactions with other departments and divisions when trying to identify a property.