RTD-Denver to resurface N Line track

The Regional Transportation District of Denver (RTD) yesterday announced plans to resurface commuter-rail track along the N Line starting Nov. 14.

The resurfacing is estimated to be finished by mid-December, weather permitting, and will extend from Union Station to Eastlake-124th Station in Thornton, RTD officials said in a press release.

Resurfacing is necessary because multiple trains moving across a track on a regular basis eventually leads to shifting, which results in a bumpy ride for passengers. The work will take no more than two days for each location. 

During the resurfacing process, a tamper picks up rail along with ties, then pushes metal paddles into the ballast to vibrate and compact it under the ties. This brings the track up to a specified height and eliminates dips in the rail. A regulator follows behind the tamper to distribute ballast and smooth the track bed, RTD officials said.

Resurfacing is part of RTD’s regular maintenance program to extend the life of tracks and equipment.