RTD's leaders have their heads in the sand with a $200 million budget shortfall (Editorial)

The editorial criticizes Regional Transportation District (RTD) leaders for responding to a $200 million budget shortfall without an actionable plan. It says staff previously sent alarming proposals to cut up to 20% of rail and bus service, including Denver’s Free MallRide on 16th Street, prompting public backlash. RTD Director Debra Johnson later said the proposed cuts were not literal but “illustrative.” The RTD Board allegedly voted against recommending cuts in one committee, then instead directed staff to bring forward $12 million in fare increases. Another committee recommended service cuts of about 10%, saving roughly $31 million for next year, and the full board meets Monday. The piece argues reserves should be used and warns ridership is down 40% since 2019, making “do nothing” unacceptable.