Possible Winter Park Ski Train Comeback

The Colorado Transportation Commission has approved a $1.5 million grant to reinstate passenger rail service from Denver to Winter Park Resort.

According to Winter Park Resort, "The Transportation Commissions decision to award $1.5 million towards a permanent platform at Winter Park Resort is an important first step in restoring the iconic Colorado tradition of rail service to Winter Park Resort. There are many details still be determined but, while nothing is guaranteed, the commitment displayed by the Transportation Commission signifies the passion felt throughout the state for rail service from Denver to Winter Park Resort".

In a press release, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet applauded the Colorado Transportation Commissions approval of a $1.5 million grant to reinstate passenger rail service from Denver to Winter Park Resort. Earlier this week, Bennet sent a letter to the Commission in support of Winter Park Resorts request, which will allow them to build a boarding platform and install rail improvements requested by Union Pacific. The completion of these improvements will allow negotiations to continue between the resort, Union Pacific, and Amtrak to re-launch service in 2017. The grant was unanimously approved.

In his letter to the Colorado Transportation Commission, Bennet wrote, This rail service not only holds important historical significance to the state of Colorado, but it also provides an important transportation alternative for residents and visitors alike.

This project has significant long-term benefits for our state and local communities, and contributes greatly to regional passenger rail service and economic growth.

The Winter Park Ski Train brought passengers 56 miles from Denvers Union Station to Winter Park Resort from 1940 until 2009. There have been collaborative efforts to reinstate the train and last year, a sold-out special trip was completed in honor of Winter Parks 75th anniversary.

The Colorado Transportation Commission is comprised of 11 commissioners representing separate districts and is charged with developing general policy for transportation management, construction, and maintenance.