Colorado chooses 'coco': new rail line gets a quirky name
Forget FRED, RangeLink, or Colorado Ranger. Coloradans have spoken, and the state’s eagerly anticipated Front Range Passenger Rail will officially be known as “CoCo.” The somewhat whimsical moniker, short for “Colorado Connector,” emerged victorious after a public vote exceeding 25,000 ballots, signaling a surprisingly lighthearted approach to a major infrastructure project.
A name reflects a vision of connection
The decision, announced Monday morning at Union Station in Denver by Governor Jared Polis and officials from the Front Range Passenger Rail District, marks a significant step forward for the project, slated to begin service in 2029. The winning name, according to the rail district’s website, embodies “a train that brings communities together and makes travel easier, faster, and less stressful.” While some might find the brevity of “CoCo” unusual, it arguably captures the project’s core goal: linking Pueblo to Fort Collins, and ultimately extending further along the Front Range.
The other contenders – FRED (Front Range Express Destinations), Colorado Ranger, and RangeLink – each presented a distinct appeal, highlighting dependability, suitability for the state’s landscape, and connectivity to jobs and schools. But “CoCo” appears to have resonated most strongly with voters, perhaps due to its approachable and memorable nature. The graphic released by the district depicts a modern, sleek train – a fitting visual for a name intended to project ease and modernity.
Funding remains a crucial aspect of the project’s timeline. The initial phase, connecting Denver and Fort Collins, is already underway, but future expansions, potentially requiring voter approval for additional funding measures in November, will determine the rail’s ultimate reach. The Regional Transportation District is providing essential financial backing, but the long-term success of the Front Range Passenger Rail, now formally “CoCo,” hinges on continued public support and a commitment to delivering on its promise of seamless regional connectivity.
The choice of “CoCo” may seem trivial to some, but it reflects a broader trend: the increasing importance of public engagement in shaping major infrastructure projects. In a state known for its robust civic participation, this vote underscores the desire for a rail line that is not only efficient and reliable but also resonates with the values and spirit of the communities it serves. The name, however unassuming, signals the start of a new era in Colorado transportation.