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Commissioners weigh CDOT request for local Bustang outrider cost share
Summary
Chaffee County staff updated the commissioners on CDOT's request for a local cost-share for a second Bustang outrider route; CDOT asked Chaffee for $143,000 (matched by Gunnison), ridership rose ~25% with the second route, and staff will continue negotiations without an appropriation this year.
County staff briefed the Board of Commissioners on Colorado Department of Transportation's request for a local cost share to support a second Bustang outrider route. The county-side ask was ultimately reduced to $143,000 (with a corresponding $143,000 from Gunnison Valley partners), after initial higher requests. Staff said Gunnison Valley RTA voted to fund its side and that annual operating-cost allocations could fluctuate year to year depending on ridership and fare revenues.
Staff reported ridership increased roughly 25% after the second route launched and that CDOT is developing a reservation system intended to protect seats for local riders. Commissioners raised concerns about long-term operating commitments and uncertain budget capacity, saying the county could consider one-time support but not an ongoing appropriation without a clearer funding plan. Questions requested additional ZIP-code-based ridership data to understand the local vs. visitor use split.
No appropriation was made; staff will continue discussions with CDOT, Gunnison Valley RTA, and municipalities and return with further analysis before any funding decision.
