From golden hills to Halloween thrills, October always brings a fresh kind of energy to the Front Range. Just like the aspens in full color, getting around the Denver metro is changing too. This month, RTD is rolling out new service options, construction milestones and safety improvements that directly impact how people travel every day, and customers' feedback will help guide what comes next.

East Colfax is entering a new chapter with bus-only lanes now open in one segment, and the SkyRide now offers a new route between Denver International Airport and Longmont. More service changes are coming in January, and customers have a chance to weigh in on proposals. At the same time, there's encouraging news behind the scenes at RTD: security-related calls on the system continue to trend downward, with fewer reports of drug activity and other concerns.

This month's Read-n-Ride has the latest on what these changes mean for communities and customers who ride RTD every day. Take a look, have a say, and stay in the know about what's happening across the network.

Have a say in proposed January 2027 service changes

RTD is asking customers to weigh in on proposed service changes that could take effect in January 2027. Customers can review proposed changes online or attend a virtual public meeting before feedback closes Oct. 29.

Two “Ask a Service Planner” sessions are scheduled for noon Oct. 27 and Oct. 28, with public meetings at 5:30 p.m. both days. The online dashboard is available now for reviewing the proposed changes and submitting feedback.

New SkyRide route makes airport trips easier for Longmont customers

Longmont residents now have a direct SkyRide option to Denver International Airport. Route AL began service Sept. 27, running hourly from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily between the 8th Avenue and Coffman Street Park-n-Ride and the airport.

The route travels along US 287, with stops at the Niwot and Lafayette Park-n-Rides before continuing to DIA via E-470. The new service gives travelers a straightforward transit option for getting to the airport without driving all the way from Longmont.

Concrete may not be the most obvious star of rail construction, but getting it right is essential to rebuilding RTD’s aging tracks.

In this Downtown Rail Reconstruction Project update, go behind the scenes to see how inspectors test fresh concrete for temperature, air content, consistency, and strength before it becomes part of the new track.

The update also covers September progress along the Colfax Avenue Alignment and Downtown Loop, including rail reconstruction and utility work along Stout Street. Crews will continue construction through the first quarter of 2027 as they work to complete the remaining sections of the project.

Transit Police see continued drop in security calls and drug activity

Reports of illicit drug activity on RTD have dropped by more than 50% in most months through July compared with the same period last year.

Security-related calls are also trending downward, with June recording a 17% reduction in calls for service compared with June 2025. At the same time, Transit Police and security officers conducted more than 433,000 fare checks in June, continuing a pattern of more than 400,000 checks each month since July 2025.

"We still have work to do, but this trend is encouraging and reflects the dedication to providing our customers a welcoming transit environment," said RTD Transit Chief of Police and Emergency Management Steve Martinago.

RTD’s Board of Directors has asked staff to study ways to make fare enforcement more consistent while helping customers resolve fare issues when they happen. The work will include examining administrative fines, allowing customers to purchase the correct fare when contacted by fare enforcement officers, and expanding opportunities to enroll in RTD’s income-based LiVE fare program.

The study also will look at fare enforcement technology, potential updates to the Respect the Ride Code of Conduct and suspension policy, and ways to involve the community in shaping future policies. Staff are expected to present recommendations in February 2027, with any approved changes planned for implementation by Jan. 1, 2028.

RTD Police Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, monitoring activity across the transit system and responding to calls from customers, employees, operators, and Transit Police officers. On a typical day, they may handle more than 200 calls, each requiring focus, judgment, and care.

In this behind-the-scenes video, dispatchers share what it takes to support customers and operators, coordinate with officers in the field, and respond when someone needs help. Get a closer look at the people working behind the scenes to support safety across RTD.

Aurora Fire and Rescue firefighters spent a day at RTD learning the ins and outs of the agency’s buses, including how to shut down electrical and engine systems, manually operate doors, and reach passengers during an emergency. The hands-on training included smoke-filled buses, a rescue dummy, and a simulated e-bike to help firefighters practice under realistic conditions.

Each RTD bus type has different access points and emergency procedures, so firefighters also practiced on regional and articulated buses. Training with local first responders helps them become familiar with RTD equipment before an emergency happens, when knowing how to safely access a bus can save valuable time.

Safety tip: Safety starts before you board

October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, a good reminder to stay alert from the moment you leave home until you reach your destination. Shorter days and longer nights can make pedestrians harder to see around bus stops, train platforms, intersections, and crossings.

Here are a few simple habits that can help customers stay visible and avoid hazards near RTD services:

1. Put the phone away. Lower headphone volume and stay alert when approaching stops, stations, and tracks.
2. Stay visible. Wear bright or reflective clothing after dark, and use sidewalks and designated crossings when available.
3. Wait safely for buses. Stand back from the curb until the bus stops, and make eye contact with the operator before crossing in front.
4. Respect the tracks. Look both ways before crossing, and use only designated crossings. Never walk on the tracks.
5. Mind the platform. Stay behind the safety line, watch for safety announcements, and mind the gap when boarding or exiting.

‘We are OneRTD’: Podcast conversation about RTD leadership and transit’s future

Operator of the Month — Jessie Molina

Jessie Molina of RTD's Boulder Division is October's Operator of the Month. He earned the honor after several customers commended his on-time performance, smooth driving, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

While Molina has been a bus operator with RTD for more than 2 years, he already knows what he enjoys most about the job: getting to know his customers. Off the road, he's a former gardener and farmer. If he had the choice, he'd rather deck out his bus in lowrider style and turn up some Johnny Cash. Click the button below to learn more about this "Highwayman."

Board of Directors meetings

• Performance Committee - Oct. 12, 8:30 a.m.

• Finance and Planning Committee - Oct. 13, 5:30 p.m.

• Operations, Safety, and Security Committee - Oct. 14, 5:30 p.m.

• Executive Committee - Oct. 20, noon

• Board Study Session - Oct. 20, 5:30 p.m.

• Board of Directors monthly meeting - Oct. 27, 5:30 p.m.

• Performance Committee - Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m.

Check the Board of Directors calendar for current information and a full list of Board events. 

Join RTD Board meetings via Zoom, YouTube

The RTD Board's committee meetings, study sessions and monthly meetings are available live on Zoom, using a Chrome or Firefox browser. Meetings are also streamed via RTD’s YouTube channel. For links, agendas and more, visit the Board’s meeting portal.

Trick-or-treating returning to Union Station

2026 Bus Roadeo combines precision, skill, and a little friendly competition

RTD's holiday sweater is back

Step aside, pumpkin spice. RTD's limited-edition holiday sweater is back and more festive than ever, featuring a blue-and-green line-up of trains, buses, and paratransit vehicles that are sure to turn heads at the office party.

Sweaters are $62 including shipping, and are expected to ship in mid-November, making them a timely gift for any transit lover. Quantities are limited, so visit the RTD Holiday Store while supplies last.