16th Street FreeRide
Coverage of 16th Street FreeRide in the Nexus archive.
- RTD board votes to move forward with bus and rail service cuts in 2027
The RTD board voted 9-6 to recommend $20 million in bus and rail service cuts for 2027 to address a budget deficit. Potential cuts target expensive or low-ridership routes like the 16th Street FreeRide and some FasTracks lines, though major routes like the A Line to the airport may remain. Final decisions on specific cuts will occur next year after public review.
- RTD committee recommends $31M in service cuts, setting stage for intense debate over which lines to lose
RTD committees recommended $31M in service cuts through a 10% reduction in operations, including potential eliminations of popular routes like the 16th Street FreeRide and several rail lines. The proposal faces opposition from riders and advocates, with one committee urging no cuts and another advocating fiscal adjustments. RTD leaders emphasized exploring alternative funding solutions to avoid service disruptions.
- Iconic 16th Street FreeRide faces uncertain future as RTD eyes cuts
The 16th Street FreeRide in Denver faces potential elimination as the Regional Transportation District (RTD) considers service cuts to address a $215 million budget deficit. The free shuttle service, a downtown staple since 1982, could save $9.5 million annually if removed, but its removal risks disrupting 20% of downtown transit riders. RTD is also exploring fare hikes, tax increases, and scaling back the FasTracks rail expansion.
- RTD could kill the free 16th Street shuttle and several rail lines under budget cut proposals
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is proposing budget cuts that could eliminate the 16th Street FreeRide shuttle and several rail lines, including the Free MetroRide and B Line to Westminster, to save up to $62 million. The cuts, which could reduce service by 5-20%, face opposition from Mayor Mike Johnston and transit advocates, with potential changes set for 2027 after public review.