Register for Winter Bike to Work Day; Join the January Challenge

Bike, Bike to Work, carpool/vanpool, Commuting Options

Register Today for Winter Bike to Work Day!

Join Commuting Solutions, Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG), Way to Go, and cyclists across the Denver northwest metro region for Winter Bike to Work Day!

Commuting Solutions will have two locations! The first is outside of the Sport Stable in Downtown Superior, and the second at US 36 & Broomfield RTD Station!

The annual event encourages seasoned cyclists to brave the elements and ride to work on their bikes. Pledge to ride with DRCOG online today!

Participate in Way to Go’s Monthly Challenges!

Have you logged your trips for January through the My Way to Go platform? Don’t forget to do so! One lucky winner who logs 8 or more trips will receive a National Parks 2022 Calendar!

Visit https://mywaytogo.org/ to register and log your trips!

 

RTD January 2022 Updates: System Optimization Plan, Service Alert Systems

Bike, Bike to Work, Commuting Options, Public Transit

RTD Seeks Input on System Optimization Plan

As part of the on-going Reimagine RTD process, on January 10th RTD released a draft System Optimization Plan (SOP) for public review. The SOP provides a route-by-route guide for service growth between now and 2027.

RTD developed the draft SOP to:

  • Reverse / mitigate trends of ridership loss
  • Improve service performance / efficiency
  • Ensure fiscal sustainability
  • Address changing travel market demands
  • Remain competitive
  • Improve service quality

The Reimagine RTD team is working with the RTD Board of Directors to finalize the SOP in early 2022. RTD is planning to formally adopt the SOP in March of 2022, with the understanding that full implementation may not be possible until 2027 due to financial constraints and workforce limitations. Implementation of the SOP will be integrated into RTD’s existing service change process, which includes community notification, public hearings and board approval before being finalized.

To see how your trips may change and to let RTD know what you think, please access our online mapping tool online.

For more information about Reimagine RTD, visit the RTD website.

RTD Debuts Service Alert System

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has debuted an enhanced Service Alerts system which will allow for signs up and notifications can now be sent by text message.

The new system offers more targeted notifications, including direction of travel and specific stops. Individuals can be notified by email, text message or both.

Customers will also be able to manage subscriptions to alerts and RTD newsletters.

To sign up, visit the Service Alerts webpage.

Message from the Executive Director: Resiliency in 2022

Bike, Bike to Work, carpool/vanpool, Commuting Options, Public Transit, Telework

Audrey DeBarros HeadshotWhile 2022 did not start off the way we thought or planned, it’s shown us one thing at Commuting Solutions. We are located in a resilient and thoughtful community, and that is something we are greatly appreciative of.

The Marshall Fire devastated our area and our community in Boulder and Broomfield Counties have rallied to support one another during this scary and stressful time. We are thankful of our partners and stakeholders at Boulder County, the City of Louisville, the Town of Superior, RTD, Via Mobility Services and so many more for what you’re doing to help keep transportation moving forward during these times.

We are also thankful for the support from our federal, state, regional and local dignitaries for stepping quickly when we needed help the most. Thank you to Gov. Jared Polis, Congressman Joe Neguse, Senators Hickenlooper and Bennet for your support and quickly getting FEMA resources to our communities and residents.

And thank you to President Joe Biden for showing your support and care and providing our communities with resources in a timely manner.

We are a resilient community, and we will be even stronger after this. We will need to continue to rely on each other and support each other.

Boulder County has created a webpage with transportation commuting resources available to those who have been affected. Commuting Solutions wants to help provide resources as well, and if you need support, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email and we will help.

Cheers,

Audrey DeBarros, Executive Director

Portion of US 36 Bikeway Closed during Construction

Bike, Bike to Work, Commuting Options, US 36 Bikeway

US 36 Bikeway DetourStarting in late October/early November, the US 36 Bikeway will be closed between West 92nd Avenue and West 88th Avenue to accommodate construction.

There will be a local detour during the duration of the construction through early 2023.

The Sheridan Underpass, also known as the Sheridan Boulevard Multimodal Transportation Improvement (MTI) Project, is a federal-aid transportation project with oversight from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). The project will provide improvements for all modes of transportation for the highly utilized corridor.

The project includes:

  • Installation of a pre-cast concrete arch underpass
  • A new US 36 bikeway underpass connecting Downtown Westminster to the RTD US 36 & Sheridan Station parking lot near Sheridan Boulevard and 88th Avenue
  • New traffic signals at the West 88th Avenue and Sheridan Boulevard intersection
  • Widening Sheridan Boulevard to six-lane facility from Turnpike Drive to West 88th Place
  • Patterned concrete medians
  • Street and pedestrian lights
  • ADA ramps
  • Storm sewer drainage improvements

Its anticipated construction will start in November and be completed in 2023.

For more information on the project, visit the City of Westminster’s project webpage

RTD October 2021 Updates: Telephone Town Halls, Bike-n-Ride shelters

Bike, Bike to Work, Commuting Options, Public Transit

RTD LogoRTD Hosts Telephone Town Halls

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is hosting a series of telephone town halls to discuss and gather input on the upcoming fare study and equity analysis, the building back of service as RTD moves through COVID-19, and to provide updates on key projects as RTD explores ways to revamp its services to meet the future needs of the district through Reimagine RTD.

On Oct. 18 District I Director Erik Davidson will be featured from 7:30-8:30 p.m.

On Oct. 21 District O Director Lynn Guissinger will be featured from 6-7 p.m.

To participate in a telephone town hall, call 855-543-3425 or visit RTD’s website to listen in with the audio player. The public can also pre-register to receive a call when the event begins by selecting an upcoming event and provide their information.

For more information, visit RTD’s website.

Two people putting bike into Bike-n-Ride shelterBike-n-Ride Shelters to Open in Broomfield and Westminster

Two new Bike-n-Ride shelters will open this fall along the US 36 Corridor in Broomfield and Westminster.

Bike-n-Ride shelters provide bicycle parking for transit riders making connections to and from RTD stations. The Bike-n-Ride program makes it easy to combine bus trips and bike rides by using the shelter to complete the first or final mile of your commute.

Commuters apply to receive a card to access the shelters. Shelters also provide weather-protected bicycle storage for people making connections! Commute stress-free knowing that your bike is sheltered from Colorado weather!

The two new shelters will be Westbound US 36 & Broomfield and Eastbound US 36 & Sheridan.

For more information on the shelters, visit Commuting Solutions’ website.

Bike-n-Ride Shelters: Frequently Asked Questions

Bike, Bike to Work, Commuting Options, Public Transit

Want to get from point A to point B but want to leave your car at home? Bike-n-Ride shelters are a great resource to use when you want to ride your bike and keep it locked up before loading onto the bus.

This fall, Commuting Solutions, the City & County of Broomfield, the City of Westminster and RTD have partnered to construct and operate two new shelters to add the list of available shelters already available in the northwest metro region! A shelter will be opened in Broomfield at the US 36 & Broomfield station on the westbound side, and one in Westminster at the US 36 & Sheridan station on the eastbound side.

Bike-n-Ride shelters are the second highest priority in the US 36 First and Final Mile Study’s corridor-wide recommendations.

Access cards for the shelters, along with the shelters throughout Boulder County, can be applied for on Commuting Solutions’ webpage.

What is a Bike-n-Ride shelter?

A Bike-n-Ride shelter provides bicycle parking for transit riders making connections to and from RTD stations.

The Bike-n-Ride program makes it easy to combine bus trips and bike rides by using the shelter to complete the first or final mile of your commute!

Shelters provide weather-protected bicycle storage and provides users an option to not have to load their bike onto the bus.

How do you access a Bike-n-Ride shelter?

Users apply for an access card to be able to access the Bike-n-Ride shelters. Receiving an access card allows the user to access shelters throughout Boulder County and two new locations in Broomfield and Westminster.

Once you apply for the card, access cards should arrive in the mail within five to 10 business days.

Where do I apply for a Bike-n-Ride shelter access card?

You can apply for a Bike-n-Ride access card on Commuting Solutions’ webpage!

Where are the Bike-n-Ride shelters located?

There are currently stations in Boulder County with two new locations opening in Broomfield and Westminster.

The following locations are:

  • Broomfield (Westbound US 36 & Broomfield)
  • Westminster (Eastbound US 36 & Sheridan)
  • Superior (US 36 & Eastbound McCaslin)
  • Louisville (US 36 & Westbound McCaslin)
  • Longmont (Hover Street & Highway 119/Diagonal)
  • North Boulder (30th Street & CO 119/Diagonal Highway)
  • Longmont (8th & Coffman)
  • US 36 & Table Mesa Station (near gate C)
  • Downtown Boulder Station (Walnut and 14th Street)

Do you need to lock your bike inside the Bike-n-Ride shelter?

Yes. It’s important to lock your bike inside the Bike-n-Ride shelter. Users should bring their own locks, and U-locks are recommended.

How much does it cost to use a Bike-n-Ride shelter?

Bike-n-Ride shelters are free to use, but users must have an access card to enter the shelters.

What other information do I need to know about the Bike-n-Ride shelters?

Users should not leave their bike in the shelter for more than 30 consecutive days.

The shelters are only for the storage of operable bikes and bicycle accessories.

 

Resources:

Commuting Solutions’ Bike-n-Ride shelter webpage

Boulder County’s Bike-n-Ride shelter webpage

RTD’s Bike-n-Ride shelter webpage

What is the Flatiron Flyer: Frequently Asked Questions

Bike, Bike to Work, Commuting Options, Public Transit, US 36 Bikeway

Whether you need to get to Denver or back home to Boulder, Regional Transportation District’s (RTD) Flatiron Flyer can help you get from point A to point B quickly, sustainably and stress-free!

What is the Flatiron Flyer?

The Flatiron Flyer, provided by RTD is the first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service to connect Denver with the northwest metro region’s businesses, federal institutions and the University of Colorado Boulder.

BRT is a type of bus service used across the nation to provide convenient, frequent and schedule-free travel options.

How often does the Flatiron Flyer Run?

The Flatiron Flyer provides commuters a reliable ride every four to 15 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours, Monday through Friday.

On the weekends, the Flatiron Flyer offers commuters rides every 15 minutes during peak hours on Saturdays and every 30 minutes on Sundays.

How much does it cost to take the Flatiron Flyer?

As of September 2021, the Flatiron Flyer cost rates can vary depending if the trip is local, regional or a ride to the airport.

RTD’s Trip Calculator will allow you to select your route, then provide your cost with options deepening on the pass.

What are the different Flatiron Flyer routes?

The Flatiron Flyer routes include:

Route FF1: All-stations, all day

This route travels between Union Station in Denver and Downtown Boulder Station. A bus will run every 15 minutes during peak hours, and every 30 minutes during non-peak hours.

Route FF3: Broomfield to Union Station

FF3 travels from Broomfield to Union Station in Denver with stops at US 36 & Church Ranch Station and US 36 & Sheridan Station.

This mid-way route operates weekdays every 15 minutes in the morning to Union Station and every 15 minutes in the evening returning to US 36 & Broomfield Station.

Route FF5: Downtown Boulder Station to Anschutz

FF5 provides service between Downtown Boulder Station and Anschutz Medical Campus in Denver, primarily in the a.m. and p.m. peaks.

How can I commute sustainability using the Flatiron Flyer?

Using alternative modes of transportation, such as the Flatiron Flyer, is a key element to building a sustainable transportation network. But the work just doesn’t start when you get on the bus, it can begin on the first portion of your commute!

Along us the US 36 corridor, there are Bike-n-Ride Shelters at the RTD stations and Flatiron Flyer stops, which allows commuters to lock their bikes in a secure spot during the day. There are also bike paths, and routes which can be found using the Bike Northwest Interactive Map, and bike racks on the vehicles.

If you choose to ride your bike, mapping out your route with the Bike Northwest Interactive Map will help you plan the best way! If you’re catching a stop along US 36, try out the US 36 Bikeway where you can safely ride to and from the bus stop!

Wondering where to park your bike for the day? There are Bike-n-Ride Shelters throughout Boulder County and along US 36. Bike-n-Ride Shelters provide a secure area to store your bike during the day and provides an option to complete the first or final mile of your commute!

If you prefer to take your bike with you, each Flatiron flyer can carry up to eight bikes!

Resources:

Traveling from Denver to Boulder, Ways to Get Around

Bike, Bike to Work, carpool/vanpool, Commuting Options, Public Transit, US 36 Bikeway

Whether you’re commuting from Denver to Boulder, or going for a fun afternoon activity, there are multiple ways to get there. From riding the bus, riding your bike, or taking a carshare ride, you can travel along US 36 more sustainably!

Riding Your Bike Along the US 36 Bikeway

If you want to op-out of taking your car, another great option is a longer bike ride! Cycling to work is one of the most powerful ways to positively impact our region’s traffic congestion and air quality.

It’s never been easier with resources such as the US 36 Bikeway and the Bike Northwest Interactive Map!

Before you hit the road, follow these tips:

  • Map your route – map your route then trace those steps as a pedestrian or in a car.
  • Gear up – Set yourself up for success and enjoy your ride with the proper gear! Head to your local bicycle shop where employees can help you pick the perfect gear.
  • Safety – Learn the proper hand signals and how your helmet should fit before hitting the road.
  • Find a safe place for your bike – Ensure there is a bike rack you can use once you reach the office or be able to store it inside the building.

Combining Bicycling and Public Transit Along US 36

Want to use both your bicycle and public transportation? Bike-n-Ride Shelters at RTD stations can help you achieve your goal!

Bike-n-Ride Shelters provide long-term, secure and weather-protected bicycle storage for commuters making connections to and from local or regional transit routes. The Bike-n-Ride program makes it easy to combine bus trips and bike rides by using the shelter to complete the first or final mile of your commute.

To use a shelter, visit Commuting Solutions’ Bike-n-Ride webpage to apply today!

Along the US 36 corridor, there are multiple Bike-n-Ride Shelters:

  • Broomfield (Westbound US 36 & Broomfield) OPENS 2021
  • Westminster (Eastbound US 36 & Sheridan) OPENS 2021
  • Superior (US 36 & Eastbound McCaslin)
  • Louisville (US 36 & Westbound McCaslin)
  • Hover Street & Highway 119/Diagonal in Longmont
  • 30th Street & Diagonal Hwy, North Boulder
  • 8th & Coffman, downtown Longmont
  • US 36 & Table Mesa Station (near gate C)
  • Downtown Boulder Station – Walnut and 14th Street

Take the Flatiron Flyer

If you prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery, or get some work done, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) has you covered!

RTD’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service, the Flatiron Flyer is the first BRT to connect Denver with the northwest metro region’s businesses, federal institutions and the University of Colorado-Boulder.

Riders have access to downtown Boulder, downtown Denver, the Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver International Airport and many more connections!

The Flatiron Flyer offers commuters a reliable ride every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes off-peak, Monday through Friday. On the weekends, the Flatiron Flyer offers commuters a reliable ride every 15 minutes during peak hours on Saturday and every 30 minutes on Sunday.

The 2021 Flatiron Flyer fares are:

  • $3 for a local three-hour pass
  • $5.25 for a regional three-hour pass
  • All trip fares can be calculated online with RTD

Flatiron Flyer Routes include:

  • Route FF1 – travels between Union Station and Downtown Boulder station.
  • Route FF3 – Travels from Broomfield to Union Station with stops at US 36 & Church Ranch Station and US 36 & Sheridan Station.
  • Route FF5 – Downtown Boulder Station to Anschutz

Currently, Routes FF2, FF4, FF6 and FF7 are suspended.

Using RTD’s Trip Planner also allows riders to plan their trips and provides real-time updates on the services.

Sharing Your Route

Whether you’re driving your car, being picked up by your co-worker, sitting in a van or using an app to order your ride, there are multiple options to get from home to work.

Carpool allows you to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the northwest metro region! Carpooling not only benefits the environment but benefits you! Sharing a ride saves you time, money and reduces stress.

Resources such as MyWaytoGo.org can help you find registered users who are part of an existing pool or looking for a carpool buddy. More than 10,000 people are currently registered!

Vanpools are the perfect commute option for commuters who travel more than 15 miles to work one-way. Passengers share the ride in a van, which can seat up to 15 people, and pay a monthly fee that covers the cost of fuel, insurance and vehicle maintenance.

Vanpools help reduce the number of vehicles on the road, and allows the riders to ride the US 36 Express Lanes for free!

Resources such as MyWayToGo.org can help you find registered users who are part of a pool or looking for a buddy! My Way to Go Vanpools operate through Commute with Enterprise.

If you’re ordering your ride through a mobile app with Uber or Lyft both allow riders to reduce costs and carbon emissions by sharing a ride with someone going the same direction.

Uber POOL provides riders a carpooling service which helps reduce the cost of travel as well as carbon emissions by sharing a ride.

If you want to use a car, but don’t own one, an option is to use a car-share service!

Colorado Carshare is a local 501(c)(3) car-sharing organization which provides alternatives to individual car ownership.

Incentives to Commuting

Did you know there are incentives to commuting with others? Check out Commuting Solutions’ blog post about commuter benefits, transit benefits!

Resources:

RTD’s fare calculator
RTD’s Flatiron Flyer
FF1 Schedule
FF3 Schedule
FF5 Schedule
US 36 Bikeway
Bike-n-Ride Shelters
Boulder County Bike Map
Denver Bike Map
MyWaytoGo.org
Commute with Enterprise
Innovations in Transportation

Employee Trip Reduction Program Rulemaking Process

Bike, Bike to Work, carpool/vanpool, Climate change, Colorado Specific Iniatives, Commuting Options, Future of Commuting, Public Transit, Telework

The Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) will discuss the Employee Trip Reduction Program (ETRP) on Thursday and determine whether there will be a rulemaking hearing this summer.

The ETRP is a new rule that is being proposed by two organizations, the Colorado Air Pollution Control Division (APCD) and Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC), and was included in Gov. Jared Polis’ Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap.

This rule would set goals for large employers to achieve reductions in the number of employees who drive alone, or “single-occupant vehicle” (SOV) employee commutes. A program that offers telecommuting, public transit, ridesharing or other means not only benefits air quality, it can also improve employee wellness, retention and company culture. The Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) will take the rule under consideration in May 2021, requesting a rulemaking hearing be set for August 2021.

Ways to Celebrate Earth Day 2021

Bike, Bike to Work, carpool/vanpool, Climate change, Commuting Options, Public Transit, Telework

Earth Day 2021 ChallengeWe’re halfway through the month of April, which means it’s almost Earth Day! At Commuting Solutions, we pride ourselves on providing progressive, flexible and sustainable transportation solutions that also reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

To celebrate Earth Day, Commuting Solutions is hosting a virtual challenge!

During the week of April 19-23, leave your car at home and take a bike ride, a walk, telework, carpool or use public transportation!

Anytime you leave the car at home, send us your selfies with the hashtag, #CSEarthDay2021. During the week, Commuting Solutions staff will share their photos to encourage everyone during the challenge!

We can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Want more ways to celebrate?

Some local jurisdictions are celebrating Earth Day as well!

On April 22 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the City of Louisville is showing Kiss the Ground, an inspiring and groundbreaking film that reveals a viable solution to our climate crisis: the soil.

Registration is required and can be done online.

On April 22, the City of Westminster is participating in the Great Global Cleanup. The clean-up can take place between April 22 and April 30. The city will provide supplies and disposal of full trash bags.

The City and County of Broomfield is hosting a week long Community Earth Day Scavenger Hunt! The event will kick off on Saturday, April 17, with the City of Broomfield’s Earth Day celebration at the public library.

Registration is required by April 17 and can be done online.

To register, contact Kristen May at kmay@cityofwestminster.us or call 303.658.2191.

With Commuting Solutions, you can become a part of the Workplace Commute Ambassadors! The program helps employees in the northwest metro region encourage their co-workers to choose sustainable transportation options, such as carpooling, riding transit, bicycling, vanpooling, teleworking and walking.

Learn more about the program by emailing Jillian at jillian@commutingsolutions.org.