Front Range Passenger Rail District bill advances through House

DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) -- Thursday, the House passed Senate Bill 21-238, allowing the Create Front Range Passenger Rail District to move forward through legislation.

The bill passed by a vote of 40-24. The Senate will now consider House amendments made to the bill.

In April, SB238 cleared the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee in a vote of 6-1.

While the bill doesn't create a state-length railway, it seeks to establish a Front Range Passenger Rail District, which would lay the groundwork for the development of a passenger rail.

“This bill ensures that Colorado has a framework in place to take advantage of federal transportation funds efficiently and effectively,” said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, (D) Pueblo. “Developing a passenger rail system from our Northern to our Southern border will keep Colorado connected and improve our state’s economy for years to come. I’m proud that the House voted to set in motion a project that has been a Southern Colorado priority for years.”

El Paso County's Board of Commissioners voiced their opposition in May to building a high-speed passenger rail line, saying they'd rather see funds go towards expanding the already established light rail and much-needed local road improvements.

The bill outlines funding options and authorizes the District to pursue a sales and use tax that would be subject to voter approval. Additionally, SB238 is designed to ensure Colorado will benefit from the federal government's proposed investment in railroad development.

In April, the Biden Administration announced a $2 trillion infrastructure and jobs plan for the nation which designates $80 billion to Amtrak rail repairs, improvements, and route expansions.

Wednesday, the House approved a $5.3 billion transportation bill, sending it to the Governor's desk for the final approval.