Denver's Regional Transportation District celebrated its new Gold LEED-certified commuter rail maintenance facility (CRMF) by inviting the public to tour the state-of-the-art 230,000-square-foot facility.

The CRMF will be used to maintain, clean and store up to 80 new commuter rail cars that will operate on the East Rail (A) Line, Gold (G) Line, the Northwest Rail (B) Line to Westminster and North Metro Rail (N) Line.

The CRMF has received a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Gold Certification, which demonstrates environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Sustainable features of the CRMF include efficient mechanics and lights for energy savings, water-efficient plumbing fixtures for reduction in water usage and specially designed windows that prevent thermal transfer.

The innovative design of the Commuter Rail Facility will facilitate daily routine maintenance. There are six tracks that run through the building on trestles with mechanic bays under the rail to allow easy access for worker to perform daily routine maintenance checks.

The floor level provides access to the interior of the cars for repairs, cleaning and maintenance. The mezzanine level gives access to the roof of the cars for maintenance of the pantograph – the extendable arm that makes contact with the overhead wire, as well as the heating and air conditioning units.

The LEED® certificate was unveiled Saturday, July 25, 2015 during an open house attended by 500 people.

A bronze plaque was also dedicated to the RTD Board of Directors as a symbol of each member's leadership at the agency and commitment to progress.