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ARVADA, Colo. -- You could call it the train to nowhere. Despite increased testing along RTD’s G Line, the commuter train still isn't carrying passengers. And at this point - neighboring businesses say it's turning into a nightmare.
For Alec Tyrrell, business has been good for the two years he’s owned and operated the Grandview Tavern and Grill in Olde Town Arvada.
"We got runner-up this year for Best Burger in all of Denver through the Denver A List,” Tyrrell said.
But he's worried that the constant barrage of train horns could bring business to a screeching halt.
"It's very, very loud and noisy," he said.
In Arvada, you can still find those like Norma Rourke who are excited about the service.
“I go to the airport quite a bit, so I'm looking forward to that," Rourke said.
But others are infuriated with the testing.
"I want to put my house on the market and get out of here because we're up all night," said Dennis Strand, who has lived in the same home for 25 years.
For the past three weeks, train horns have been a constant nearly 24/7.
“There's a mental health element involved,” Strand said. “Do they understand what it does when you deprive people of sleep? Night after night after night after night. Children. My goodness."
Strand calls the testing "insanity."
"I can't even speak with you," he says as a train roars by blowing its horn during our interview.
RTD says the testing, which lasts until 1 a.m. and starts again at 3 a.m., is required.
A spokesman said RTD must operate "simulated service" and the Olde Town Arvada area is not yet designated a quiet zone, although it hopes to have that designation soon.
Strand isn't buying it.
"Let's be honest,” Strand said. “The A Line – with the same technology - has been blowing its horns for two years. They've been promising those people it would be quiet. It’s not. This is insane."
Tyrrell is trying to remain optimistic, but has growing concerns, as well.
"As you can see right now,” Tyrrell says pointing to a train at the station. “There's a train stopped at station and doors are opening, but no one's getting on and off."
RTD says, “We fully recognize the disruption and we apologize for that.”
