Transit & Rail

The Division of Transit & Rail (DTR) was created in 2009 via state legislation and is responsible for the planning, developing, operating, and integrating transit and rail into the statewide transportation system. The creation of the Division of Transit & Rail is consistent with CDOT's mission of “providing the best multimodal transportation system for Colorado that most effectively and safely moves people, goods and information.”


What We Do

DTR works with other transit and rail providers to plan, promote, and implement investments in transit and rail services statewide. To accomplish this, DTR developed the Colorado State Freight and Passenger Rail Plan (State Rail Plan). This plan, approved by the Colorado Transportation Commission in March 2012, made CDOT eligible for Federal Railroad Administration funds.

Go to the Colorado Freight and Passenger Rail Plan

In March 2015, DTR developed a Statewide Transit Plan to identify local, regional, and statewide transit and passenger rail needs and priorities. Both the State Rail Plan and Statewide Transit Plan are required to be integrated into the long-range Statewide Transportation Plan.

Go to the State Transit Plan


Guiding Principles for Transit Planning at CDOT When planning and designing for future transportation improvements, CDOT will consider the role of transit in meeting the mobility needs of the multimodal transportation system. CDOT will facilitate increased modal options and interface to facilities for all transportation system users.   CDOT will consider the role of transit in maintaining, maximizing and expanding system capacity and extending the useful life of existing transportation facilities, networks and right of way.   CDOT will promote system connectivity and transit mobility by linking networks of local, regional and interstate transportation services.   CDOT will work towards integrating transit to support economic growth and development, and the state’s economic vitality. CDOT will pursue transit investments that support economic goals in an environmentally responsible manner.   CDOT will establish collaborative partnerships with local agencies, transit providers, the private sector and other stakeholders to meet the state’s transit needs through open and transparent processes.   CDOT will advocate for state and federal support of transit in Colorado including dedicated, stable and reliable funding sources for transit.  Through partnerships, CDOT will leverage the limited transit funds available and seek new dollars for transit in Colorado.