Colorado state officials and the Union Pacific Railroad have come to a tentative agreement regarding the future of the Moffat Tunnel, a century-old landmark that plays a crucial role in connecting the Front Range to the Western Slope. This agreement paves the way for the expansion of passenger rail service between Denver and Craig, marking a significant milestone in the state’s transportation infrastructure.
The agreement, which is set to be formally signed in May pending any unforeseen obstacles, will extend the 99-year lease allowing Union Pacific to utilize the Moffat Tunnel for an additional 25 years. In exchange, the state will gain expanded access to Union Pacific’s railroad tracks for passenger trains traveling from Denver to northern Colorado within that timeframe.
Although final technical details are still being ironed out, state negotiators expressed confidence on Monday that this agreement will ultimately receive final approval. If all goes smoothly, regular daily passenger train service between Denver and Grand County could commence in late 2026, just in time for the start of the ski season. This expansion could potentially lead to up to three roundtrip services per day between Denver and Craig, with stops at popular destinations like Winter Park and Steamboat Springs along the route.
Governor Jared Polis lauded the agreement, highlighting the benefits of passenger rail in alleviating traffic congestion to mountain communities and providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options for both tourists and residents. The phased build-out of passenger rail infrastructure, funded in part by federal dollars allocated by the state legislature, is expected to take several decades to complete.
The Moffat Tunnel, spanning 6.2 miles and crossing the Continental Divide at over 9,200 feet in elevation, serves as a vital link between eastern and western Colorado. As the only rail tunnel in the state to traverse the Divide, it plays a critical role in connecting local, regional, and national customers.
Union Pacific President Beth Whited expressed enthusiasm for the renewed lease agreement, emphasizing the importance of the Moffat Tunnel in facilitating commerce and strengthening the partnership between Union Pacific and the State of Colorado. The terms of the agreement outline responsibilities for maintenance, upkeep, and infrastructure upgrades, with Union Pacific assuming responsibility for the tunnel and the state sharing costs for operating and maintaining UP-owned tracks along the mountain passenger rail corridor.
In conclusion, the agreement between Colorado state officials and Union Pacific Railroad marks a significant milestone in the expansion of passenger rail service in the state, promising improved connectivity and transportation options for residents and visitors alike. With the Moffat Tunnel at the heart of this agreement, the future of rail travel in Colorado looks bright.
