NEWS RELEASE
THE CITY OF LONGMONT
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As residents of the Denver-metro region begin to venture out more frequently, the Regional Transportation District has been steadily preparing to get our region moving again. Starting Wednesday, July 1, the agency will make two key changes: fare collection will resume, and riders will be asked to board through the front door on all buses.
“We’re all trying to take steps to return to a different normal, whatever that may be,” said RTD Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Paul Ballard. “Collecting fares again is important for our agency’s financial health and helps RTD get back on track. Our committed team has been working tirelessly since the onset of COVID-19, and we are prepared to welcome our riders back when they’re ready to join us.”
RTD on April 5 suspended fare collection and instituted rear-door boarding, among several operational changes, designed to enhance safety across the system. RTD took these steps based on emerging COVID-19 conditions and the potential for transmission of the disease to operators. Both changes provide for distance between operators and the public, mitigating close proximity to those who might be infected.
Beginning July 1, riders will be asked to pay with a ticket, pass or cash when riding on the RTD system. RTD’s Mobile Tickets app will be available for purchases starting that day. Contactless payment options such as these help with safety by lessening contact with the farebox on vehicles. Tickets can also be purchased with the Uber and Transit apps. Discount fares are available for those who qualify, with full details available on the RTD website.
The agency asks riders to be partners in safety by wearing face coverings and keeping 6 feet between them and others when riding or waiting to board vehicles. To learn more about the measures RTD continues to take to keep its employees and riders safe, visit rtd-denver.com/coronavirus.
As more riders return to RTD’s buses and trains, agency staff will continue to monitor service to meet the needs of our communities. Frequency has increased on some routes in response to demand. While ridership is down across RTD’s system, the agency now provides about 120,000 trips each weekday, compared with 350,000 weekday trips through the end of last year.
For complete details about the changes announced today, visit rtd-denver.com or call 303-299-6000.
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