Re: NNG: Colorado DOT explores market for passenger train cars and locomotives [for Denver to Craig service]

If demand is there, a shuttle service from the nearest rail for skiers to Steamboat Springs is a real possibility. Having driven from the Denver front range area to Steamboat Springs for Skiing in winter several times in the past, riding a train most of the way with a short final shuttle would be a real plus. The skiing experience at Steamboat is delightful and not crowded. There was regular transport around town and to the ski area and downtown for dining or shopping that stopped across the street from our hotel. We did not need our car at all once there.

There are currently several thriving ground shuttle companies serving Skiers between the Montrose airport and Telluride with regular daily scheduled service. They appear busy and full given the baggage on top and in ski rack on back. Several hotels in Telluride will pay for the shuttle. The shuttle distance for similar service between rail and Steamboat Springs is about the same.

Access from the Craig region for advanced Medical treatments in Denver would be a plus for many existing residents of the area who currently have to drive to Denver. Currently my living near a small town in Western Colorado and recently shopping for a new vehicle, made me quickly realize the better available selection and price options were definitely in the larger Metro Denver area and required much driving. Relaxing on a train and using Denver taxi's would have been much easier.

The future and cost for individuals driving themselves everywhere is unknown. Am glad to see that Colorado is considering other options.