Report by Joel Noble

Based on public and RTD Board feedback, the final fare structure is simpler than the existing structure in many ways, including the combining of Regional and Express into one fare category (called “Regional”), providing a day-pass option at each price level, and reducing the number of rail zones from four today to three in the new structure (meaning fewer trips will cross through three zone boundaries and require a higher fare).

Note that the public and Board feedback on the proposal came after our last meeting, so the final fare structure is different than what we were shown. Most notably, rail zones had been proposed to be eliminated, but instead have been retained and simplified. The Airport trip has also been reduced in price from the earlier proposal.

In the next phase, RTD will continue working with Mile High Connects on discount passes for low-income residents, and will make a recommendation for pass program changes.

For more detail about the new fare structure for 2016, see RTD’s detailed fare update page.