RTD Boulder Fare Hikes: The Bus Just Got Pricier For 2019

BOULDER, CO -- It has been three years since the last fare increases, so unsuspecting Boulder residents may be in for a bit of 2019 sticker shock when boarding an RTD bus this January. As of Jan. 2, 2019, traditional fares have increased across the board for bus tickets, as part of a rate structure shake-up that will also provide discounted fares to low income riders.

A local ride will now cost $3, rather than the previous $2.60, while a ride to the airport will cost $10.50 rather than $9. Regional fares will increase to $5.25 each way. All of the fares can be obtained at a discount by purchasing 10-ride ticket books or monthly passes.

The new fares will allow RTD to offer a 40 percent discount to people making less than 185 percent of the federal poverty line — though that program won't be implemented until mid-2019. Discounts up to 70 percent will also be given to riders under the age of 18. Day pass, monthly pass, Ecopass, and CollegePass program options will remain the same for riders, and the later year-long pass options will be priced according to average use.

Traditional discount fares will still be available for seniors ages 65+, those with disabilities, and Medicare recipients. Active military members still ride free on RTD. The 2019 changes were approved at an RTD Board of Directors meeting last fall.

See the full, updated details on prices, rates, and pass options on the RTD website.

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Photo credit: Mara Abbott/Patch