Coco rolls in: colorado commuters embrace new rail name
Forget FRED, RangeLink, or Colorado Ranger – Coloradans have spoken, and the Front Range Passenger Rail project will officially be known as “CoCo,” a moniker as straightforward as the service it promises. The decision, announced Monday morning at Union Station, caps a month-long public vote where over 25,000 residents weighed in on the future identity of the long-awaited rail line connecting Pueblo to Fort Collins.
A name reflecting unity, not just transit
The winning name, short for “Colorado Connector,” was pitched as a symbol of bringing communities together. While the other contenders – FRED (Front Range Express Destinations), Colorado Ranger, and RangeLink – offered their own appeals – dependability, a nod to the state’s landscape, and connection to jobs respectively – CoCo ultimately resonated most with the electorate. The graphic released by the Front Range Passenger Rail District depicts a sleek, modern train, seemingly embodying the promise of easier, faster, and less stressful travel across the Front Range.
Governor Jared Polis, present at the announcement, framed the decision as a victory for public engagement. “This isn’t just about a name; it’s about reflecting the values of the communities this rail line will serve,” he said, hinting at the broader public consultation expected as the project moves forward.
But there's a detail that bears noting: the timing of this naming exercise coincides with the looming question of funding. The project, slated to begin service in 2029, is currently unfolding in three phases, with the Denver-to-Fort Collins segment leading the way. Voters may face a series of funding measures this November, and the enthusiasm generated by the “CoCo” name could prove vital in securing the necessary capital.
The Regional Transportation District’s contribution is already secured, but the scale of this ambitious project demands further investment. The choice of “CoCo,” with its emphasis on connection and accessibility, feels less like a purely aesthetic decision and more like a strategic move to foster public support – a recognition that a project of this magnitude lives or dies on the backing of the people it intends to serve. The rail line’s website outlined each name’s promise, and the simplicity of “CoCo” likely helped it win over voters wary of overly complex branding.
The Front Range Passenger Rail represents a significant investment in Colorado’s future, one that aims to alleviate traffic congestion and expand economic opportunity. The name is just the first step, but it’s a step that speaks volumes about the priorities of a state eager to embrace a more connected and sustainable future.