In a recent government meeting, officials outlined plans for an enhanced bus service aimed at improving transportation access to popular recreational areas. The proposed service will operate from a new mobility hub, located at the current gravel pit at the mouth of the canyon, providing buses every 5 to 10 minutes during peak times, a significant upgrade from the existing 30-minute intervals.
The mobility hub will feature a parking structure designed to facilitate seamless transitions from personal vehicles to public transport, ensuring users are sheltered from the elements while waiting for buses. The facility is expected to include amenities such as seating, lockers, and restrooms, with a total area ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 square feet.
Additionally, two new resort bus stops will be established at Solitude and Brighton, featuring enclosed, heated buildings to enhance the waiting experience. Improvements are also planned for existing bus stops in the Mid Canyon area, including CardioFork, Spruces, and SilverFork, with a focus on meeting ADA standards and ensuring safety for passengers loading and unloading.
To further encourage public transit use, officials are considering implementing a toll system aimed at reducing congestion. The toll would be applied below entry 1, where 90% of traffic heads to the upper canyon, with pricing potentially adjusted based on road conditions. If traffic is flowing smoothly, the toll may not be enforced.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to further analyze the necessary capacity for the mobility hub and to provide updates on the study process and timeline in the coming months.