RTD approves $225 million of spending for FasTracks work

Property owners bristling over eminent domain.
By Kevin Flynn
Originally published 12:30 a.m., November 21, 2007, Updated 04:07 p.m., November 21, 2007

The Regional Transportation District kick-started FasTracks work Tuesday night by approving nearly $225 million of spending, while critics kicked right back over RTD’s use of eminent domain.

The RTD board approved a $187 million no-bid contract with Siemens for 55 new light-rail cars, $29 million for early construction, steel fabrication and copper procurement on the West Corridor light-rail project and $8.7 million to buy all the rail and ties for the 12-mile line.

RTD also announced Tuesday that the Federal Transit Administration has approved the revised West Corridor environmental study, including a controversial cutback to a single track for the last four-mile segment to Golden. But before taking those matters up, the board was confronted by property-rights advocates and several property owners along the West Corridor who received notices in September that RTD intends to acquire their land.

Speakers condemned RTD’s process as one-sided and challenged the agency to work with them more closely to find ways both sides can come out ahead.

Although project maps have generally outlined properties needed for stations, park-n- Rides, tracks, sidewalks and other work, RTD’s policy has been not to discuss specific properties until it’s determined for sure whether they’re needed. But Tom Wambolt, of the Colorado Property Rights Coalition, said that creates a situation in which property owners aren’t brought in until the tail end, making it harder to negotiate any alternatives.

Instead, the first step owners see is a done deal.

Wambolt suggested RTD begin discussions with property owners earlier in the process.

Owners agreed. “I like light rail,” Steve Fesch said. “But the way I was approached, if this is the way you’re going to do it for the next 10 years, you’re going to have a lot of problems.”

Fesch owns a parcel at Howard Place and Decatur Street, near the West Corridor’s Federal Boulevard station and Invesco Field. He said no one ever told him his land was in the cross hairs for the project. “I am willing to work with you; I’m a reasonable guy.”

Galen Foster, owner of Pro- Tint window tinting at 14th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard, where he and his wife also live, was more blunt.

“I want you all to know we’re not trying to stop light rail at all,” he said. “But hide and watch. We want to get on board. But if you can’t work with us, we will slow this down or I’ll die trying.”

RTD General Manager Cal Marsella said the agency is willing to meet with the owners to discuss their concerns.