Transit

Early planning and design are helping implement the corridor’s future multimodal vision, including an integrated plan of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) improvements supported by multimodal (roadway, bicycle and pedestrian) infrastructure and transit supportive land development at planned station areas.

This view represents the ultimate corridor recommendation for along CO 7 with an t shared bus lane supported by stations along the corridor. Near-term improvements may still exist until project funding and right-of-way is available to construct the ultimate condition.

An image of a bike path, transit lane and traffic lanes in both directions.

typical bike path, transit lane and traffic lanes in both directions

CO 7 Transit Starter Service

The first phase of the BRT service will be a CO 7 Transit Starter Service beginning in 2025. The Transit Starter Service will help with the increase in traffic and population by providing a travel alternative along the corridor. This transportation service will cut time and increase reliability between Brighton and Boulder. It has been projected that the route will have 8,500 to 9,800 boardings daily. This route will help connect communities along the rapidly growing, interregional corridor. The Transit Starter Service includes a variety recommendations and treatment options, such as queue jump lanes and transit signal priority.

By 2050

A graphic of the corridor facts and growth by 2050. The content of the graphic is outlined below as a bulleted list.

corridor facts and growth by 2050

  • 49,000 new households
  • 38,000 new jobs
  • 37% traffic increase is expected overall (50-60% on the eastern end of the corridor)
  • 8,500 to 9,800 projected boardings for the Transit Starter Service
  • Transit Starter Service will cut travel and increase reliability between Brighton and Boulder

What are the benefits of the Transit Starter Service?

  • Connectivity
  • Improved travel times, speeds, and reliability
  • Provides key connections to other transit services
  • Reduces vehicle miles traveled, therefore, improving air quality and reducing emissions
  • Provides a travel and commute options for disadvantaged communities

How will the Transit Starter Service work?

The route will include 10 stations over 26.6 miles, serving communities within Boulder, Broomfield, and Adams counties. The first year (2026) will include 30-minute headway service, 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. In 2027, the service will be expanded to every day. The route will have limited stops to minimize the travel delay associated with boarding and alighting. The route will offer queue jumps and transit-only lanes at intersections throughout the corridor to minimize delay for transit vehicles and their passengers.

This transit service will connect with other regional and interregional transit routes, including Flatiron Flyer, FLEX, and Bustang, as well as the US-287 and CDOT North I-25 mobility hubs.

How much will the service cost?

Given the exceptionally high numbers of low-income households in the corridor, it was decided by the project partners to make this a fare-free service, which will enhance affordable, equitable transit options for people of all ages and income levels.

How is this being funded?

The total estimated cost of this service is $9.264 million. This service will be funded by the CO 7 Coalition, comprised of communities and key organizations along the corridor, in addition to RTD and CDOT.