In a recent government meeting, officials outlined plans for an enhanced bus service aimed at improving transportation in the Mid Canyon area. The proposed service will significantly increase the frequency of buses, with departures from a new mobility hub scheduled every 5 to 10 minutes during peak times, compared to the current 30-minute intervals.
Key features of the plan include the construction of resort bus stops at Solitude and Brighton, designed as enclosed, heated facilities with amenities such as seating, lockers, and restrooms. These stops will be between 5,000 to 7,000 square feet and will be strategically located to minimize traffic congestion for buses.
Improvements to existing bus stops at CardioFork, Spruces, and SilverFork are also on the agenda, with a focus on ensuring compliance with ADA standards and enhancing safety for passengers. The new mobility hub will be situated at the mouth of the canyon, replacing a gravel pit with a structured parking facility that allows users to transition from their vehicles to buses without exposure to the elements.
Additionally, the meeting discussed the implementation of a tolling system designed to encourage public transit use while reducing congestion. The toll will be applied below entry 1, where 90% of traffic heads to the upper canyon, with pricing potentially varying based on road conditions.
The project is currently in the scoping phase of an environmental study, which will evaluate the potential impacts of these changes in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Further details regarding the size of the mobility hub and the overall timeline for the project are expected to be released in the coming months.