Boulder Launches ‘Zero Fare for Better Air’

Last week, the City of Boulder and the Regional Transportation District (RTD) announced Zero Fare for Better Air, “a collaborative, statewide initiative designed to reduce ground-level ozone by increasing use of transit,” according to a press release from the city.

“Through a partnership with the Colorado Energy Office, made possible by Colorado Senate Bill 22-180, RTD will offer zero fares on all services during the month of August. The City of Boulder is also partnering with Via Mobility Services to provide zero-fare service on the local Boulder HOP bus route.” The one-month program aims to encourage more Boulder residents to try local public transportation options. In addition to eliminating up to 20 pounds of daily carbon dioxide emissions by switching to public transit, “A household can save nearly $10,000 by taking public transportation and living with one less car.”

“The city’s 2019 Transportation Master Plan (TMP) recommends zero fare for local and regional transit services as a strategy to enhance equity, promote access to opportunity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through modal shift and increased transit ridership.”