Most folks that are downtown sipping on cocktails or taking in a ballgame aren't aware of the amazing progress that is taking place right behind Union Station. Crews are currently on track to complete the transit phase of the redevelopment of the historic train station and surrounding area. As recently reported by the Denver Post, the main elements of the transit plan are 65 percent complete.
The huge, underground regional bus facility is 70 percent complete, having been built in two stages. It is a massive 1,000 feet long and will have 22 bus bays, replacing the current Market Street Station. The commuter-rail station, which will be right behind Union Station will be covered by a 44,000 sq ft canopy similar to that at DIA. This portion of the project is 55 percent complete.
The $350 million project is on schedule and on budget. It is due to be completed in the spring of 2014. With 2013 fast approaching it will be done before we know it! This project is the hub of the Regional Transportation District's FasTracks program and will integrate light rail, commuter rail and Amtrak, as well as regional, express and local bus service, taxis, vans, bicycles and pedestrians.
Along with the transportation hub will be private developments that will include multi-use North and South wing buildings, while the Untion Station Alliance wants to remodel the train station to include a 130-room hotel on the second and third floors and retail and retaurants on the ground level. That group is currently in negotiations with RTD, which owns the site.
I personally can't wait to grab my bag, walk on over and jump on the light rail to DIA...won't that be convenient?
Watch a video about what's taking shape:
Union Station Neighborhood Fly Through from Union Station Neighborhood on Vimeo.
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