Colorado's future rail line seeks a name – and funding
The Colorado Front Range Passenger Rail District is turning to the public for a name, launching a campaign to christen the future train connecting Pueblo to Fort Collins and several cities in between. But the project's success hinges on more than just a catchy moniker; it requires voter approval for critical funding in November.
A name for progress: fred, coco, and the public vote
The options being considered – FRED (Front Range Express Destinations), CoCo (Colorado Connector), Colorado Ranger, and RangeLink – reflect the ambitious scope of the project. Online voting is currently underway, a relatively small hurdle compared to the larger financial questions looming.
The rail line, slated to begin service in 2029 with initial three-round trips between Denver and Fort Collins, is drawing inspiration from the existing ski train. General Manager Sal Pace points to the ski train's remarkable success, maintaining 80% capacity even with a doubling of trains. “Really, the ski train has been a model that all the services have looked at,” Pace stated. The demand, it seems, is undeniable.
But the enthusiasm needs to translate into tangible support at the ballot box. The district is preparing a ballot measure for this November seeking voter approval for funding phases of the rail service. This is not merely about naming a train; it’s about securing the financial foundation for a significant transportation upgrade across the Front Range, one that promises to alleviate congestion and provide a vital alternative to increasingly crowded highways. The Regional Transportation District is providing financial assistance, but more is needed to realize the full potential of the project.
The initiative arrives amidst a flurry of regional news, from CSU climatologists analyzing unprecedented March 2026 weather records to T announcing ticket prices for a World Cup train to Foxboro, and San Joaquin County pursuing federal funds for water infrastructure. All point to a region grappling with growth and infrastructure demands.
The public vote in November will determine whether this ambitious rail project becomes more than just a name on a train. It's a referendum on the future of transportation in Colorado.