Denver's Regional Transit District to Overhaul Bus System

Like other transit systems around the country, Colorado's Regional Transportation District (RTD) is proposing an overhaul of its service to better serve post-pandemic travel patterns. Nathaniel Minor reports that with ridership dropping off in suburban areas, the agency will focus on boosting service in the denser areas where ridership remained steady.

The RTD's proposal, which would change around 30 percent of the bus system, would be implemented over the next five years. The agency plans to shift existing lines, adjust service frequency on highly-used routes, and eliminate underperforming lines. To make up for the loss of service, RTD plans to introduce an on-demand service to ensure residents of lower-density areas still have access to transit. Changes would apply primarily to bus lines, while RTD's light rail and commuter rail lines would largely remain the same.

Shontel Lewis, an RTD board member, praised the proposal for "prioritizing equity" and enhancing service for the low-income communities that depend on transit. Others worry that limiting transit in suburban areas will further encourage driving and reduce the likelihood of people switching modes.