Customers using RTD’s services during encouraged to use agency apps for information

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Customers using RTD’s services during weekend protests encouraged to plan ahead, use agency apps for information

RTD’s Service Alerts, website, and app will provide the most up-to-date information if there are detours or service disruptions
DENVER (June 13, 2025) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is taking steps to prepare for an expected large presence of protesters in downtown Denver and nearby cities across the agency’s service area this weekend. RTD maintains several contingency plans that can be readily implemented if an external event disrupts fixed-route bus and rail services.

The agency maintains several contingency plans and has a common operating plan across all service modes if there is a disruptive event. RTD staff has been meeting for several days with external entities, including the Denver Police Department (DPD), to receive updates and risk assessments. These coordinated efforts ensure RTD can quickly incorporate information from its public safety partners and readily deploy agency resources as needed or warranted. RTD’s Transit Police Department (RTD-PD) will also increase patrols and officer presence to support the personal safety and security of customers and employees.

Customers are encouraged to prepare in advance for travel by using RTD’s Next Ride application to plan trips, view Service Alerts, and stay ahead of potential detours in the event of street closures. RTD’s trip planner tool shows all transit options from a customer’s current location, and it will provide real-time updates about detours and disruptions.

While RTD is focused on being prepared for the expected large protests and gatherings that have a potential to disrupt services, it can be difficult to predict crowd actions in the moment. Agency staff will be actively monitoring events in real time to support public safety and, to the greatest extent possible, minimize service disruptions. RTD’s primary goal is to ensure its employees and customers are able to safely connect to their destinations before, during, and after all planned and unplanned protests.

Rail Service

As long as it is safe to continue operations, light rail and commuter rail services into the Downtown Loop and Denver Union Station will continue as scheduled. In the event that DPD closes streets or limits pedestrian access to the Downtown Loop, all light rail trains will be rerouted to Denver Union Station. If Union Station is closed for safety reasons, connections will not be provided to that facility, and services will continue to operate along the remainder of each individual rail line.

Bus Service

Bus service into downtown Denver will continue, as scheduled, unless streets are closed or it is deemed unsafe for operations. If it is feasible and safe to do so, buses will be rerouted around protests and street closures to continue providing service. As noted above, if Union Station is closed for safety reasons, bus service will not be provided at that facility.

Helpful Tips

Plan ahead, be patient, and prepare for large crowds
Sign up for Service Alerts
Check RTD’s website for bus and rail schedules
Download the RTD Transit Watch app to report any safety or security issues
Customer Care agents are available seven days a week by calling 303.299.6000