Denver RTD announced that Zero Fare for Better Air, a statewide initiative designed to reduce ground-level ozone by increasing the use of public transit, is set to begin July 1.

Throughout the months of July and August, RTD will provide services – bus, rail, Access-a-Ride, and FlexRide– at zero cost.

Zero Fare for Better Air, which takes place during Colorado’s highest ozone months, is supported through a grant program created by Colorado Senate Bill 22-180 in partnership with the Colorado Energy Office.

Governor Polis and RTD GM/CEO Debra A Johnson, along with other community leaders, marked the kickoff for media, elected officials, and community members in attendance by ceremonially covering a farebox.

What RTD's Campaign Provides

The two-month initiative provides an opportunity for individuals to take advantage of RTD services for daily commutes, leisurely activities, or everyday errands.

“The Zero Fare for Better Air initiative was a success in 2022, as evidenced by positive customer and employee feedback and minimal disruptions to day-to-day operations,” said Johnson. “Many thanks to RTD’s partners and stakeholders at the state and local level for joining with the agency to expand this initiative to two full months in 2023. I am personally optimistic that this zero-fare offering can drive real change in sustainable commuting behaviors within the Denver metro area.”

RTD is collaborating with community and jurisdictional partners around this initiative, which aligns with the agency's strategic priorities of Customer Excellence and Community Value.

The Return of Zero Fare for Better Air

Zero Fare for Better Air returns this year for an additional month after its inaugural year.

A post-2022 campaign survey found that overall ridership increased by 22% from July 2022 to August 2022, and 36% from August 2021; 72% of respondents indicated that they were likely or very likely to continue using RTD services in the future.

This year, the agency will include a question in the survey related to how behaviors might impact air quality in the metro area.  

RTD is operating under its current service plan for the duration of the initiative. Agency staff has developed operational plans to meet increased service demands and will make adjustments as necessary.

To supplement service as resources are available, rail cars will be added to trains and extra buses will continue to be positioned strategically throughout RTD’s service area.  

RTD’s Transit Police division will use all available resources to support Zero Fare for Better Air.