UPDATE: RTD’s A Line service resumes after being impacted by early morning copper wire thefts
UPDATE
DENVER (Sept. 12, 2025 at 3:40 p.m.) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD)’s A Line has resumed normal operations between all stations that were previously impacted by early morning copper wire thefts. On Friday afternoon, crews finished work to successfully replace the stolen copper wire, which occurred at multiple locations along the rail alignment.
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PREVIOUS VERSION
DENVER (Sept. 12, 2025 at 9 a.m.) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD)’s A Line commuter rail service has been impacted today by copper wire thefts along the alignment. Due to the early morning thefts, four crossing gates in the area of Steele Street and Quebec Street entered into automatic safety mode, meaning the arms were in the down position to limit traffic from crossing.
A bus shuttle between Denver Union Station and Central Park Station has been established while repairs are being made and the issue resolved.
As has been previously reported by RTD and in local media, the agency has been the victim of multiple incidents of copper wire thefts over the last year. The stolen wires are part of RTD’s computerized system that prevents trains from colliding, speeding or passing through crossings without the signals activating. The copper wires provide connections to a low-voltage system that powers the signals at rail crossings, ensuring the safety mechanisms properly work.
RTD asks customers and the community to report any suspicious behavior they observe on or near the system’s tracks. The agency also warns that trespassing on RTD’s tracks is dangerous and deadly. Trains can approach from any direction at any time and are unable to quickly stop or slow down. Additionally, there is a real danger of electrocution from exposing and handling the system’s copper wires.
Anonymous or discreet tips can be shared using RTD’s Transit Watch app by calling Transit Police dispatch at 303.299.2911, or texting 303.434.9100.
RTD is quickly working to resolve the issue and resume full service along the A Line. Mitigation measures are also being evaluated to minimize current impacts to motorists in the area. The agency will provide regular updates on its website.