The trolley in Lower Downtown is back on track-and, for that matter, on some new tracks as well.
The opening of more destination sites along the Platte River (think Ocean Journey for one) and the migration of more residents to 15th Street led to pushing the trolley project forward, after years on the drawing board.
This project, funded by RTD, Denver Union Terminal and Historic Denver, is an extension of the historic trolley line that runs along the Platte River. The trolley will come around the new REI store, turn right down 15th Street and run all the way to Wynkoop Street. There it will turn left onto Wynkoop and go to the Chop House Restaurant at the entrance to Coors Field.
Stops along the way will deliver passengers to all the entertainment venues along the line, including direct transit access to Commons Park. The trolley will provide access for commuters to Union Station, the rest of downtown and the regional transit system. The need for this connection will become even greater as newcomers move into the thousands of new residential units being planned for the 15th Street corridor.
But even if you don't need a connection -or even transportation- the trolleys are still worth the ride. They'll have the look of the traditional historic cars but will be modern versions capable of handling a large number of commuters.
And, you'll find these historic cars will be available for "special" trips along the Platte for dinner and other excursions. But you'll have to wait: while planning has begun, the construction schedule is still being discussed.