Resurfacing and realignment of rails makes a smoother ride and extends rail life

Regional Transportation District regular track maintenance on the N Line from Union Station to Eastlake & 124^th Station in Thornton will begin Sept. 29 and continue for about a month. The work should not impact service, according to an RTD release.

Through Oct. 3, work will occur daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. After Oct. 3, work will happen overnight between 11:30 p.m. and 3:30 a.m. Train horns will sound as trains pass crews and equipment.

The surfacing work involves lifting segments of track and using on-rail vehicles to lift and redistribute the rock ballast under the rail ties, followed by a vehicle that tamps the rails down and reforms the ballast for a uniform appearance as well as leveling and smoothing the rails to eliminate dips in the rails caused by repeated train traffic.

This regular maintenance helps extend the life of the track and keep the ride smooth for customers.

“The resurfacing program will go through various locations with homes nearby. While the machines will be noisy, the work is not expected to take more than two days in each location. Resurfacing work through stations is planned to take place outside of service hours or when customers are not present. The work is expected to be completed in late October, weather permitting,” said officials in a news release.