Colorado legislature enacts transit authority reforms for enhanced public transportation

On April 22, 2025, the Colorado State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 161, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the governance and operational efficiency of the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The bill addresses critical issues related to transportation infrastructure, funding, and service delivery within transit-oriented communities.

One of the bill's primary objectives is to improve demand management strategies and policies, which are essential for addressing the growing challenges of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions linked to transportation. To this end, the bill mandates that RTD periodically inform the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) and the Department of Local Affairs about any infrastructure gaps in transit-oriented areas, ensuring that local governments are aware of and can address these deficiencies.

Additionally, Senate Bill 161 requires RTD to modernize its EcoPass and low-income fare discount programs, making public transit more accessible to a broader range of residents. This move is expected to enhance ridership and support low-income individuals in accessing essential services.

The bill also proposes structural changes to the RTD board by adding two nonvoting ex officio members, appointed by the executive director of the Department of Transportation and DRCOG. This change aims to improve oversight and collaboration among regional transportation authorities. Furthermore, the bill prohibits write-in candidates for the RTD board, a measure intended to streamline the election process and ensure a more organized governance structure.

To bolster transit services across the state, the legislation requires the Transportation Commission to develop best practices for creating regional transportation authorities, which could lead to increased funding and improved services. An RTD accountability committee will also be established within the Colorado Energy Office, tasked with providing recommendations on governance, compensation, and workforce retention by January 30, 2026.

The introduction of Senate Bill 161 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding its potential impact on Colorado's transportation landscape. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step toward modernizing transit services and addressing environmental concerns, while critics express concerns about the implications of limiting board member elections and the effectiveness of proposed governance changes.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its outcomes could significantly influence the future of public transportation in Colorado, shaping how residents navigate their communities and interact with transit systems. The next steps will involve committee reviews and potential amendments before a final vote is taken.