Transportation is a major contributor to Denver’s greenhouse gas emissions. As Denver commits to net-zero emissions by 2040, RTD’s role in providing clean, reliable, and accessible public transit is crucial. Public transportation improvements are necessary not only to reduce emissions but also to create a healthier and more equitable city. The plan focuses on making RTD more sustainable, improving ridership, and advancing Denver’s commitment to a 100% renewable future.

Increase Ridership with Safety and Reliability

Currently, RTD’s ridership is just 59% of what it was before the pandemic. Safety concerns and unreliable service are among the primary reasons people are not using public transportation.

Increase rider safety: Place trained transit ambassadors at key stations and along problematic routes to assist passengers and enforce safety protocols. Use real-time security monitoring systems to detect threats and enhance safety without compromising rider privacy. These measures will help bring back the 41% of riders who have stopped using RTD since the pandemic.
Increase service reliability: To ensure RTD becomes a reliable alternative to car travel, RTD must improve maintenance protocols, use real-time data from GPS and sensors to monitor transit performance, and deploy more vehicles in high-demand areas. RTD must streamline existing routes by removing legacy detours. Simpler routes reduce delays, reduce carbon emissions, and increase ridership. By reducing the number of dropped runs, detours and late services, RTD can rebuild rider trust and reduce fuel consumption, creating a more efficient system.

A Path to Electrification

While RTD currently faces financial constraints that prevent immediate large-scale electrification of its fleet, it is crucial to establish a clear roadmap for achieving this transition over the coming decade. The environmental and economic benefits of moving to an all-electric fleet are significant, and without a detailed plan, Denver will fall behind in meeting its climate goals.

Collaborate with the State for Funding: RTD must work closely with the state government to secure additional funding through infrastructure grants, green energy programs, and partnerships. The Polis Administration’s commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy by 2040 provides a framework through which RTD can advocate for state-backed financial support to accelerate the electrification process.
Phased Electrification Plan: A phased approach will allow RTD to gradually replace diesel and hybrid buses with electric vehicles over a 10-15 year period. Prioritizing high-traffic routes and urban areas for the first phase of electrification will provide the most immediate environmental and cost benefits.
Invest in Infrastructure: In addition to acquiring electric buses, RTD must plan for the infrastructure needed to support this fleet. This includes building fast-charging stations, retrofitting bus depots, and investing in energy storage solutions. Securing state funds and leveraging public-private partnerships will be key to achieving this.
Research and Development: RTD should engage in partnerships with research institutions and technology companies to explore advancements in battery technology, cold-weather performance, and energy efficiency. This will ensure that the electrification strategy remains sustainable and cost-effective in the long run.

Expand Access and First/Last-Mile Connectivity

Today, around 75% of Denver residents live beyond walking distance from a transit station, severely limiting RTD’s reach. Creating additional connectivity to transit will not only increase ridership but also reduce emissions by making transit more accessible to everyone.

Improve first/last-mile options: RTD should work with municipalities to expand pedestrian pathways near stations and subsidize micromobility options like bikeshare. These initiatives will improve access to light rail and bus stations, particularly in underserved areas of the city.

Ensure Investments in Housing Align with Transit Goals

As Denver grows, housing and transportation must work hand in hand. Development that caters to public transit, rather than car dependency, will create a city that is both sustainable and affordable.

Transit-oriented housing development: Reducing parking mandates and encouraging higher-density, transit-friendly housing developments will help shift Denver away from car dependency. By ensuring that new developments are near transit lines, include affordable housing, and are built on RTD-owned land near rail stations, RTD can reduce emissions, improve access to public transportation, and promote sustainable growth. These developments should focus on dense, all-electric, energy-efficient buildings with very limited parking to align with Denver’s climate goals.

Encourage Non-Car Commuting Options

Denver’s car-centric culture has contributed to increased emissions and traffic congestion. To meet climate goals, viable alternatives to car commuting must be provided, encouraging more people to use public transit, bikes, and walking paths.

Bike and pedestrian infrastructure: Fewer than 10% of Denverites currently commute by biking or walking. RTD should build on the successes of Denver Moves, offering safe and affordable bike parking at every transit station. These secure bike shelters currently exist in Boulder and along the Flatiron Flyer. RTD should take aggressive action to offer the same service everywhere in the next few years.
E-bike rebate program: Denver’s e-bike rebate program has already shown great promise, with 71% of participants reporting reduced car usage. RTD should facilitate its success by offering free e-bike charging inside of its bike shelters.

Integrate Renewable Energy into RTD Infrastructure

RTD should integrate renewable energy across its infrastructure. Solar power and energy-efficient systems can help reduce operating costs and further the city’s commitment to 100% renewable energy by 2040.

Solar-powered transit hubs: RTD should install solar panels at key transit hubs and facilities, using clean energy to power operations. This aligns with Denver’s broader sustainability goals and will reduce RTD’s reliance on traditional energy sources.
Energy-efficient station upgrades: Retrofitting RTD stations to meet the highest energy efficiency standards will reduce operating costs and environmental impact. These upgrades should include improvements in lighting, heating, and cooling systems, making RTD a leader in energy-efficient public infrastructure.

Conclusion

RTD has a significant role to play in Denver’s path toward sustainability. Through targeted investments in electrification, first-mile/last-mile connectivity, and renewable energy, public transportation can become more accessible, reliable, and environmentally friendly. With these improvements, RTD can help Denver meet its ambitious climate goals and create a more livable, equitable city for all residents.

A Sustainable RTD