Downtown Transit Center's Railroad Dog, Annie, receives grave and garden restoration
In the heart of Fort Collins, Colorado, a series of exciting changes are taking place. The City's Nature in the City and Xeriscape Incentive Program are spearheading a restoration project that not only pays homage to the city's rich history but also promotes environmental stewardship.
Let's start with Annie the Railroad Dog, a beloved figure who once called the Downtown Transit Center her home. Rescued by railway crew members in 1934, this sick, pregnant dog became a fixture at the Transit Center until her death in 1948. Her grave, adorned with a handmade headstone, remains untouched, while her commemorative plaque is being relocated for easier community access.
Annie's garden, named in her honour, is being revitalized with the latest in water-saving technology – drip irrigation. Native, pollinator-friendly plants will be planted, creating a vibrant and eco-friendly space.
The stormwater basin north of the Transit Center is also undergoing improvements. Three new trees are being planted, and the existing turfgrass is being replaced with native prairie seed mixes. Live plants will be added this fall, further enhancing the area's natural beauty.
The irrigation system at this basin has also been updated, ensuring the new plants receive the right amount of water.
For those using public transportation, there are some changes to note. Due to staff shortages, Transfort is temporarily reducing the frequency of Routes 7 & 19 to once per hour, starting September 8. This change aims to stabilize service across the system, as these routes typically have low ridership.
Riders can connect with RTD regional routes at the nearby 8th & Coffman Park-n-Ride from the temporary FLEX 2 stop. A new stop for FLEX 2 has been established near Coffman Street and 8th Avenue, on the east side of Coffman Street. However, please note that FLEX 2 no longer serves stop 1454 at Bross and Longs Peak, effective September 2.
For more information about these projects, visit the City of Fort Collins project page. The FLEX 2 timetable remains unchanged.
These transformations in Fort Collins demonstrate the city's commitment to balancing community history, reliable transportation, and environmental stewardship. The city is restoring underutilized spaces with native, low-water species, and updating infrastructure to be more efficient and eco-friendly.
A mayoral proclamation in 2005 declared August 27 as Annie the Railroad Dog Day in Fort Collins, but the name of the mayor who made this declaration is not available in the search results. Regardless, the spirit of Annie lives on in the heart of the city, and her legacy continues to inspire positive change.
Learn more about Nature in the City grants at the program website, and join Fort Collins in celebrating its commitment to sustainability and community spirit.
