RTD-Denver cites lower fares, more security among Top 10 actions in '24

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) of Denver this week announced what its leaders believe were the agency's top 10 achievements in 2024, including in infrastructure work, employee safety and financial resource management.

RTD's top achievement was its lowered fares for all transportation systems for the first time in the agency’s history, agency officials said in a press release.

The fare change stemmed from a systemwide study and equity analysis that aimed to create a more affordable fare structure, they said. RTD also recognized the impact of its downtown light-rail reconstruction project, an investment in the agency's 30-year-old downtown loop infrastructure. That program will continue this year.

The RTD also tightened security measures across its system, deploying more higher-certified security officers on a 24/7 patrol cycle, adding three new K-9 units, and installing live security cameras on buses and trains, allowing off-site security officers to view vehicle interiors in real time. The cameras are now fully installed on the bus fleet and are being installed on all light-rail vehicles.

Other highlighted achievements in 2024 include: 

• reprogramming elevators in six locations to remain open while at rest to deter criminal activity;
• launching a $1 million transit assistance program, which provided fares to over 55,000 individuals with immediate transit needs; 
• creating an Impact Team comprised of employee volunteer ambassadors to assist riders during peak service times, events and service disruptions; 
• reaching a ridership high of 50 million passengers on the A commuter-rail line; and 
• celebrating 30 years of providing light-rail service.