Earlier this month, a dedicated group from Commuting Solutions and the Northwest Mayors & Commissioners Coalition (NWMCC), traveled to Washington D.C. for our annual federal advocacy trip. The mission? To push for vital regional transportation projects that will shape the future of our communities.
Throughout our whirlwind visit, we engaged with key elected officials, including Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, and Representatives Joe Neguse, Diana Degette, Brittany Pettersen, and Gabe Evans. We also met with key United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) representatives and several influential House and Senate Committees representing democratic, republican, and bipartisan interests.
We were thrilled to receive applause for our collaborative efforts, demonstrating the strong case for why our multi-county initiatives are essential. From getting projects “shovel ready” to successfully securing state funds to leverage federal dollars, our commitment to improving our region’s transportation infrastructure did not go unnoticed.
A Timely Advocacy Effort
This year’s trip comes at an intriguing juncture, as the new presidential administration sifts through thousands of federal grant requests. With over 3,000 requests currently on hold, there is some uncertainty regarding how federal priorities may impact our regional needs. However, the overall sentiment during our meetings was encouraging. We left D.C. hopeful about securing funding for both the US 287 Corridor Safety Improvement Project and the CO 7 Multimodal Corridor from Brighton to Boulder—projects that are crucial to keeping Coloradans safe and accommodating our rapidly growing population.
The $66 million CRISI Grant (Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program) awarded to Colorado in 2024 as a part of the previous administration’s Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act (IIJA) has not been paid out. However, the NW MCC and Commuting Solutions feel it is not a lost cause. While payment for these types of commitments (from the previous federal administration) are far from a sure bet, our meetings with the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committees (both Democratic and Republican) implied that this type of large scale infrastructure / rail development efforts are perceived as largely politically neutral and will be evaluated by this current administration accordingly.
Prioritizing Safety on US 287
A critical focus of our discussions was the US 287 Corridor Safety Improvements Project [PDF, 235.61 KB]. This major route has a troubling record, with the highest rate of severe crashes in Boulder County. Plans for improvements include shoulder widening, additional passing lanes, and wildlife crossing infrastructure—essential modifications aimed at enhancing safety for all road users.
Highlighting the CO 7 Multimodal Corridor
Another important discussion focused on the CO 7 Multimodal Corridor. Championed by the City of Lafayette and backed by eight local jurisdictions, this project embodies a transformative vision for multimodal transportation. As CO 7 evolves from a two-lane rural highway into a vital east-west arterial road, it reflects our region’s swift population and employment growth, serving as an essential connection for residents to jobs and community facilities.
Advancing Rail Connectivity
We also advocated for completing the Northwest Rail line and extending Front Range Passenger Rail service to Fort Collins. These rail initiatives promise to revolutionize transportation connectivity for our region, reduce traffic congestion, mitigate air pollution, and offer greater accessibility and convenience for commuters.
The Power of Collective Action
What truly sets the NWMCC apart is its collaborative spirit. Representing a diverse array of jurisdictions and organizations throughout the northwest metro region, our coalition amplifies the voice of our communities. We are grateful for the commitment of all participants in this year’s D.C. trip, as our collective action strengthens our advocacy and ensures that our regional transportation priorities are recognized and addressed. As we move forward, we remain determined to secure the necessary funding and support for our transportation initiatives. Together, we can continue to enhance our region’s infrastructure and promote a safer, more connected future for everyone. Stay tuned for updates as we work toward these vital projects!
It is crucial to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of our legislators who tirelessly champion our cause. Their support and collaboration are instrumental in advancing critical legislation that shapes the future of our communities. We are immensely grateful for their continued dialogue and partnership with our organization.
