City Council
Reference: IGA Between Commerce City and the City of Brighton Regarding Cost-Sharing for US 85 and 120th Avenue Project
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Michael P. Martinez City Manager
Prepared By: Greg Labrie, Director of Public Works
Date Prepared: February 10, 2026
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Agreement is to formalize Brighton’s commitment to contribute Two Million One Hundred Seventeen Thousand Dollars ($2,117,000) as its local match toward the design and construction of the Project, in recognition of the regional benefits to the citizens of Brighton and surrounding communities. This contribution, to be made in a single payment by February 28, 2027, will support the City’s acceptance of the CRISI Grant and fulfillment of the Total Local Match required for the Project.
BACKGROUND / HISTORY
The U.S. Department of Transportation, through the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), awarded Commerce City a Fiscal Year 2021 Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grant in the amount of $9,589,000 for the construction of a grade-separated crossing at US 85 and the Union Pacific Railroad at 120th Avenue. This critical infrastructure improvement is designed to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve regional mobility for residents and businesses.
As a condition of the CRISI Grant, Commerce City is required to provide a Total Local Match of $11,192,000 toward the Project. Recognizing the significant regional benefits-including improved transportation safety, economic development opportunities, and enhanced connectivity-Commerce City requested financial participation from regional partners.
In accordance with Section 18(2)(a) of Article XIV of the Colorado Constitution and Sections 29-1-201 et seq. and 29-20-105 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, Colorado law authorizes and encourages intergovernmental cooperation for mutual benefit. Consistent with this authority, Brighton has agreed to contribute $2,117,000 (the “Brighton Local Match”) toward the Project as part of the Total Local Match. This contribution reflects Brighton’s commitment to regional collaboration and its recognition of the long-term benefits the Project will provide to its residents and the surrounding communities.
Brighton’s contribution will be made in a single payment by February 28, 2027, and will complement contributions from other partners, including $3,430,000 from Commerce City and $5,645,000 from Adams County under a separate intergovernmental agreement. Together, these investments will ensure the successful completion of a project that addresses critical transportation needs and supports the shared vision of safer, more efficient infrastructure for the region.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Brighton will contribute $2,117,000 (the “Brighton Local Match”) toward the Project as part of the Total Local Match. This investment demonstrates Brighton’s commitment to regional cooperation and its acknowledgment of the long-term benefits the Project will deliver to its residents and neighboring communities. The contribution has been included in Brighton’s five-year capital plan and is scheduled to be budgeted for Fiscal Year 2027.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council approve Brighton’s contribution of $2,117,000 toward the US 85/Union Pacific Railroad grade-separated crossing project at 120th Avenue, as outlined in the Intergovernmental Agreement with the City. This funding represents Brighton’s share of the required local match for the CRISI Grant awarded by the Federal Railroad Administration and reflects the City’s commitment to regional transportation improvements that enhance safety, reduce congestion, and support economic development. The contribution has been incorporated into Brighton’s five-year capital plan and is scheduled for budgeting in Fiscal Year 2027.
ATTACHMENTS:
• Intergovernmental Agreement
• PowerPoint Presentation