RTD adopts new fare system

As of Sept. 1, RTD riders likely saw a new way of boarding public transit. 

RTD is calling its new fare system MyRide, which is meant to provide more convenience for customers. 

The new system is an account-based fare payment system that can be accessed via a mobile ap, a web portal or through a new MyRide card. 

The RTD MyRide App, formally known as the RTD Mobile Tickets app, is available on all iOS and Android devices. Those who wish to use the web portal "can create and manage their MyRide accounts with ease," according to RTD spokesperson Austin Nettleton.

RTD stated on its website that it spent time in August during the Zero Fare for Better Air initiative transitioning the new system into place. Customers were encouraged to begin migrating their card balances and accounts into the new system.

Most of the struggle to migrate into the new system has been "recovering lost PINs and setting up new accounts/transitioning old accounts to new accounts," Nettleton said via email.

Customers who still have yet to migrate their accounts will need to fill out the MyRide Transition Reimbursement Form online or in-person at any RTD Sales Outlet.

The update to the system is part of RTD's Fare Modernization Project which began in 2016. The goal of the project has been to replace the card-based system with a cloud-based system.

While progress has been made toward that goal, paper fare products and cash are still options for customers, however a new MyRide card is necessary.

The new cards are the only ones that will work with the new validators, which are still in the process of being added to buses and rail platforms.

The new system will also ensure fare capping is accurately applied to a customer's account.

"Fare capping ensures you never pay more than you should on RTD," the website states. Fares will automatically convert to day or monthly passes or only charge a rider the difference between a low fare zone and a higher one. 

 Customers in the past have had a discount option but that feature is not available under the new system yet. Discount passes are available by purchasing a physical or mobile 10-Ride Ticket Book. Special discount fares for youth 6-19, seniors and individuals with disabilities remain under the new system, Nettleton said, adding customers still need to present a valid ID "when boarding or having their fare inspected."