RTD ends ‘slow zones’ as a crew of 100 completes a year of repairs

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) lifted all 'slow zones' on Tuesday, concluding a year of extensive repairs that limited train speeds to 10 mph on certain routes. Crews completed repairs in 31 zones, replacing over two miles of track and smoothing more than 50 miles of rail, significantly impacting ridership. The repair initiative followed inspections that uncovered structural issues, leading RTD to adopt new maintenance standards set by the American Public Transportation Association. The final slow zone was located between the Yale and Southmoor stations. RTD plans to expand its maintenance team from 14 to 18 employees to enhance oversight of the aging rail system.

While officials assert that the system is structurally sound, they caution that slow zones may reappear as new issues are identified. The agency's proactive approach aims to prevent future disruptions in service.