Legislation to Expand and Improve Public Transit Passes Committee
SB25-161 would require RTD to set ambitious goals, expand transit access, and improve accountability and transparency
DENVER, CO – Legislation to improve the Regional Transportation District (RTD) passed the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee yesterday.
SB25-161, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, would require RTD to adopt new policies to enhance services, boost ridership, and rebuild public trust in the transit system.
“Colorado deserves a world-class public transit system that is convenient, safe, and reliable,” said Winter. “As Colorado grows, we must be intentional about growing sustainably, keeping services affordable, and making sure that Coloradans can access transit where they live and work. This bill will help unlock the potential of RTD to deliver fast, frequent, and dependable public transportation.”
“Thousands of Coloradans rely on public transit every day to get to work and school, attend essential appointments, and see their loved ones,” said Jodeh. “For many, unreliable service can mean losing a paycheck or even their job. This bill is about restoring trust in our transit system and ensuring all Coloradans, including my constituents in Aurora, get the safe, efficient transit they need.”
The bill would require RTD to develop an ambitious 10-year strategic plan to expand and improve transit in the Front Range, aligning its goals with state climate goals and enhancing partnerships with local governments. It would increase ridership by directing RTD to expand access to affordable EcoPasses through apartments or employers and streamline enrollment for low-income discounted transit passes.
SB25-161 would improve transparency and accountability by creating public dashboards for riders to access information on transit performance, safety, and reliability. Finally, the bill would also establish a 13-member RTD Accountability Committee to evaluate RTD’s governance structure, local and state agency representation, and workforce retention, as well as develop recommendations.
SB25-161 now heads to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.