RTD Increases Prices for Access-on-Demand Service: What It Means for Families

Protesters with signs on RTD Access-on-Demand price increase.

Major Fare Increases for RTD's Access-on-Demand Program

Starting January 1, 2026, riders with disabilities using the Access-on-Demand service of the Regional Transportation District (RTD) in Denver will experience significant fare hikes. Previously free for users, the new policy introduces a base fare of $4.50 per ride, escalating costs for many who depend on this essential transportation service.

Legal Challenges and Community Backlash

In a legal battle aimed at halting the fare increase, the Atlantis ADAPT and several disability activists argued that these changes violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and negatively target those with disabilities. Despite these challenges, a federal judge ruled against the plaintiffs, indicating their failure to demonstrate that RTD’s policy changes disproportionately impacted disabled riders.

Implications for the Disability Community

For Coloradoans with disabilities, Access-on-Demand has become a vital means of accessing jobs, grocery stores, and essential services. The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act promises equal access, yet many fear RTD's fare changes break this commitment, as it was established to provide comparable mobility options to the wider public.

RTD’s Justification and Future Planning

RTD maintains that these fare adjustments are necessary for the sustainability of the service. Their arguments highlight that the Access-on-Demand program is an “optional premium service,” which falls outside the federal law's requirements. However, critics argue that this interpretation ignores public sentiment and the long-term ramifications of increased costs on disabled riders’ lives.

As discussions continue about transportation accessibility and equity within Denver, families, and especially those with disabled members, should remain vigilant and engaged with these developments. Advocating for inclusive policies ensures that public services serve everyone in the community equally.

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RTD Increases Prices for Access-on-Demand Service: What It Means for Families

Major Fare Increases for RTD's Access-on-Demand Program

Legal Challenges and Community Backlash

Implications for the Disability Community

RTD’s Justification and Future Planning

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