Proposed RTD Revisions and Comment Period

Hello Neighbors,

I received the [below] note yesterday from Theresa, the RTD liaison
for the EcoPass program.  In summation, RTD is recommending the
following changes to the neighborhood EcoPass program:
1) a total of a 19% price increase
2) a moratorium on new or expanded EcoPass districts (that is, if
your block is not part of the program now, you won't be allowed to join)
3) a $5 fee [each way] for riding the SkyRide to DIA.

RTD is currently hosting a public comment period.  There will be a
public hearing in Boulder as follows:
Boulder
Thursday, September 18
Colorado University
Glenn Miller Ballroom
6pm
University Memorial Center
1669 Euclid Avenue
Boulder, CO  80309

If you can't make the meeting, please at least send a note to
RTD.  I'm guessing the rate increases are going to happen no matter
what.  However, I'm also guessing that if enough people object to the
$5 SkyRide surcharge and the moratorium on growth that we may be able
to scuttle those off of the agenda.  Ideally, we would all attend the
meeting and send a letter.  However, I realize not everyone can do
that (I'm still not entirely sure if I can make the Thursday meeting,
I'm going to have to shuffle some things to do it).  That said, if we
want to see EcoPass continue as a viable transportation option within
our community, we should all take a few minutes to respond.

Tom, if you think some of the WNCA folks would be willing to write a
letter (especially regarding program growth), it would be great if
you could pass along this information to them.

best,
Kariane

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


Dear Neighborhood Eco Pass Coordinator:

Due to the increasing cost of fuel and other operating costs, and
lower than anticipated sales tax revenue, the RTD Board of Directors
has directed staff to solicit public comment regarding a proposed
price increase and changes to the Eco Pass Program and other fare categories.

The specific recommendations for the Neighborhood Eco Pass program are:
   * Increase per household rates by 14 percent in every rate
category on accordance with overall fare increase.
   * Increase per household rate by additional five percent in every
rate category due to program ridership increases.
   * Implement a moratorium on new or expanded Neighborhood Pass
contracts until smart card data is available.
   * Implement a $5.00 skyRide fee from all stops except Stapleton
and 40th/Airport.

If you wish to submit a comment regarding these proposals, there are
a number of ways you may do so. A total of 16 public hearings are
scheduled throughout the RTD district. A list of dates and times is
shown on the back of this letter. You may also submit comments by
email to farecomments@rtd-denver.com or
fax comments to 303-299-2008.

Comments must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2008 in
order to be included in the summary of public input to be presented
to the RTD Board of Directors.

Thank you,


Theresa Sabrsula
Employer Outreach Manager