RTD renames Free MallRide service to 16th Street FreeRide in support of city’s revitalization effort 

RTD replaces former shuttle moniker to align with Denver’s transformation of the Mall to 16th Street

DENVER (June 6, 2025) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is renaming its 16th Street Free MallRide as the 16th Street FreeRide to align with Denver’s recent rebranding of the transitway as “16th Street.”

The name change for the iconic shuttle service between Union and Civic Center stations supports the city’s initiative to revitalize 16th Street and reinforces the street’s importance as a central hub in downtown Denver.

The first rebranded 16th Street FreeRide shuttles began circulating over the weekend as the Downtown Denver Partnership kicked off its Summer in Denver celebration on 16th Street. The entire 36-vehicle fleet, along with signage, maps and associated assets, will reflect the new name over the coming months.

Like RTD’s Free MallRide service, which launched in 1982, the new FreeRide will be offered at no cost to customers. The shuttle will continue to operate seven days a week on 16th Street between Union Station and Curtis Street and detour onto 15th and 17th streets to support completion of the city’s 16th Street Mall reconstruction project.

The renaming of the free shuttle service reaffirms RTD’s commitment as a regional partner, offers an opportunity to elevate downtown Denver’s unique identity, and underscores RTD’s core mission of making lives better through connections.