RTD Rail Station Name Update Proposals |
Introduction: This survey aims to re-examine RTD's Property and Station Naming Policy as it applies to rail stations. Greater Denver Transit (GDT) proposes a series of alternative station names be considered that may improve system navigability and bolster awareness of and respect for neighborhood identity.
Background: RTD’s approach to naming stations has evolved over time. Before 2006, many stations emphasized neighborhoods, landmarks, and destinations—for example, those along the Southwest Extension (2000) and Central Platte Valley Extension (2002). Since 2006 however, new light rail and commuter rail lines have more often relied on cross streets or major arterials as station names.
In general, three naming conventions are used:
A) Neighborhoods / Landmarks / Destinations
B) Cross streets (e.g., “X & Y”)
C) Closest major arterial (single street reference)
Your input: Looking ahead, how should station names best serve riders?
1. Should RTD highlight neighborhoods and destinations—a common approach in many transit systems worldwide? Or should it maintain a focus on cross streets and arterials, reflecting how Denverites navigate today, usually using cars?
2. How can names of transit stations also honor local communities while ensuring clarity and ease of use?
2. How can names of transit stations also honor local communities while ensuring clarity and ease of use?