The Zero Fare Transit Grant Program is administered by the Colorado Energy Office (CEO) to support public transit agencies in providing free ridership options, particularly during the ozone season. This initiative aligns with broader efforts by the state of Colorado to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality. The program is a strategic environmental and public health measure intended to mitigate the effects of ground-level ozone, especially among vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
The program has two primary mechanisms for distribution. One channel delivers funding to the Regional Transportation District (RTD) to support a year-round youth free transit program. The second channel involves providing grants to the Colorado Association of Transit Agencies (CASTA), which then distributes these funds to eligible transit agencies. These grants can support either youth fare-free programs or offer fare-free services during times of high ground-level ozone.
Ground-level ozone is a major environmental concern in Colorado, with serious public health implications. By funding free transit services, the program encourages residents to utilize public transportation instead of personal vehicles. This reduction in vehicle traffic directly contributes to the lowering of ozone-forming emissions, thereby improving air quality across the state during critical periods.
The program places a strong emphasis on equitable access to public transportation and environmental health. By offering free ridership, the initiative removes financial barriers for residents who might otherwise struggle with transportation costs. This approach not only helps achieve environmental goals but also advances transportation equity across diverse communities.
While the exact funding amounts and award ceilings are not disclosed in the available materials, final reports for past years (2022 and 2023) are available, which provide detailed insights into program outcomes and the distribution of funds. These reports include information from both RTD and CASTA, underscoring the state's commitment to transparency and data-driven evaluation.
Currently, there are no specific deadlines or application instructions provided in the available documentation. Interested agencies are encouraged to stay informed by subscribing to updates from the Colorado Energy Office, which regularly announces new funding opportunities and program updates. The CEO has not published a contact name, phone number, or email address in the program materials. However, general inquiries can be directed through their main website or sign-up channels for future updates.
As of now, the program appears to be ongoing and recurring on a seasonal basis, with a continued focus on summer months when ozone levels are highest. Agencies seeking future participation should monitor the CEO’s announcements closely and review previous final reports to understand the scope and expectations of the program.
