The electrification of proposed rail lines in Denver has broad support, but the measure would greatly increase the project's cost and could limit future expansion.
"Electrifying the FasTracks rail line between Union Station and Boulder/Longmont could add as much as $550 million in cost to the project when compared with current plans for diesel-powered trains, RTD said Thursday."
"The transit district released a letter from BNSF Railway Co. that said numerous bridges along the 41-mile rail route would have to be reconstructed to accommodate overhead electric wires for commuter rail."
"Recently, RTD directors supported electric rail over diesel for the east corridor train to Denver International Airport and the Gold Line from Union Station to Arvada/Wheat Ridge."
"Some local government officials and residents also have expressed preference for electric rail for the northwest line and the north metro train to Adams County. They noted that electrification eliminates train emissions, and at lower speeds, electric trains are quieter than diesel counterparts."
"Electrification of the line would probably prevent any future rail expansion in the corridor since the placement of poles for electric wires takes additional space."
FULL STORY: Planned rail carries big power charge

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie