As I explained earlier, the federal grant that funded increased frequencies on the BOLT and J routes has expired.  This loss of resources forced RTD staff to propose extensive cuts to these two bus services. 

While it was impossible to preserve all of the tripsalong these routes in the face of low ridership statistics and competing priorities, we were successful in saving some additional trips for the August schedule change.  Specifically, through a combined effort of Longmont, Boulder and Boulder County (with each jurisdiction chipping-in about $8,800 to match a similar contribution from RTD), RTD staff agreed to continue operating the following additional runs:

BOLT: 8:13 a.m.  southbound and 4:23 p.m. northbound

J Route: 8:34 a.m. southbound and 3:02 northbound

I applaud the affected communities for their financial contributions and RTD staff for its open approach to negotiations over preserving trips along these important routes.  We now have additional time to demonstrate the continued value of the BOLT and J routes.  In the coming months, I will be working with RTD staff to ensure that we are promoting these two services effectively.  Ultimately, it is my hope that additional exposure to these services will entice a rising number of commuters to leave their cars at home and, instead, enjoy the pleasures of a transit trip.

 For a good summary of the BOLT and J Route status, check-out John Fryar’s story in The Daily Times-Call:  http://www.timescall.com/Local-Story.asp?ID=2933.