RTD eliminates three speed restrictions along the H and R lines
DENVER (April 22, 2025) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has lifted three speed restrictions along the H and R lines, resulting in the elimination of Slow Zone #3. With today’s announcement, all speed restrictions along the R Line have now been removed, and three of the four light rail slow zones have been successfully eliminated from the system.
Earlier this month, RTD announced an updated timeline to lift all remaining speed restrictions in less than 60 days. Since the announcement on April 3, RTD has eliminated four speed restrictions, allowing for a resumption of regular service along both the D and R lines.
A less than one-mile southbound speed restriction that was implemented in 2024 remains in place between Yale and Southmoor stations. RTD projects completing the remaining preventative maintenance work and lifting the restriction in the coming month. On April 3, two restrictions were implemented north of Yale Station near track switches. Current service impacts for customers traveling end-to-end along the E and H lines reflect an up-to-five-minute addition in trip times. RTD’s light rail speed restrictions webpage has been updated to reflect today’s announcement.
Track Inspections
In 2024, RTD implemented a more robust standard for regularly inspecting the agency’s more than 120 miles of light rail track. The agency adheres to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) standards for the periodic inspection and maintenance of transit tracks. APTA’s standards, which RTD began using last May, include visual, electrical, and mechanical inspections of components that affect safe and reliable rail operations, as well as standards for implementing necessary speed restrictions.
APTA’s standards outline the required qualifications for rail employees or contractors who perform inspections and complete maintenance tasks. RTD’s light rail inspections are conducted annually, quarterly, monthly, and twice weekly, depending on the type of inspection being performed.
Due to RTD’s aging rail infrastructure, temporary speed restrictions will continue to be implemented in the future, when necessary and warranted, following regular track inspections.