RTD launches Community Ambassador Program to help shape future of transit in metro area

RTD is conducting a comprehensive operational analysis – RTD CONNECT, the Comprehensive Operations and Network Needs Evaluation for Community Transit. The program will develop both short- and long-term service plans, creating a road map outlining how best to use available resources to meet the region’s transportation needs. As CONNECT enters the stakeholder and community engagement phase, the program team has introduced the RTD CONNECT Community Ambassador Program, an opportunity for individuals to serve as a vital link between RTD and residents, ensuring every community has a voice in shaping the region’s transit network.

RTD CONNECT is an 18-month, districtwide initiative to evaluate and redesign the agency’s transit network. The project aims to align services with post-pandemic travel patterns and guide future service changes while accounting for RTD's current structural budget. With insights from data and stakeholder engagement, CONNECT will assess the balance between transit frequency and geographic coverage to ensure strong, reliable connections that reflect the unique community priorities within each of RTD’s 15 districts. Community Ambassadors will engage directly with RTD and translate community priorities into meaningful input that will inform the planning process.

RTD CONNECT project phasing

RTD CONNECT is currently in Phase 1 with a focus on evaluating the current transit network, travel patterns, ridership trends, and industry benchmarks. RTD will host an educational briefing Aug. 13 for regional nonprofit, government and community partners. The briefing will introduce stakeholders to RTD CONNECT, provide an overview of the project phases and outline opportunities for continued engagement, including recruitment of Community Ambassadors.

Community Ambassadors will play a critical role in ensuring community members are informed about the project and able to share their perspectives on potential network alternatives in Phase 2 (Fall 2026) and short- and long-range service plans in Phase 3 (Summer 2027).

Become an RTD CONNECT Community Ambassador

RTD is seeking 30 Community Ambassadors, two from each of RTD’s 15 director districts, to share project information, gather feedback, and promote opportunities for community members to get involved in RTD CONNECT. The estimated time commitment is at least 50 hours per 3-month phase. Community Ambassadors will receive a stipend of $2,500 in each of the two engagement phases.

RTD is looking for individuals who have strong connections to their communities and are interested in influencing the future of transit in the region. No prior transportation experience is necessary.

Applications will be accepted through Aug. 28, 2026. Applicants will be notified of their application status by Sept. 9, 2026.

Interested in becoming an RTD CONNECT Community Ambassador? Learn more and apply here in English or in Spanish. Questions? Contact [email protected].

Community feedback

In addition to the Community Ambassador opportunity, over the course of the year, RTD will provide multiple opportunities for community members to review, react to, and provide feedback on three key proposals:

• May/June 2027 Service Changes: Short-term service changes to operate within the agency’s current fiscal constraints
• January 2028 Short-Range Service Plan: A plan for optimized routes and service levels at a sustainable funding level
• Long-range vision: A guide for future investments and system growth

RTD is committed to actively engaging stakeholders, customers, and community members to ensure their voices help shape the future of transit in our region.