The Town of Carbondale has announced the continuation of its free, on-demand Downtowner ride service through the end of 2025. Following its successful six-month pilot program, which began on July 1,
2023, the Downtowner service was extended for another year with the approval of the Town’s 2025 budget.
Presentations about the Downtowner service and the WE-cycle bike-share program will be made at the Jan. 14 Board of Trustees meeting that includes ridership data and operational updates.
The Downtowner, a shared ride service operating seven days a week, has proven to be a successful addition to Carbondale’s transportation network. Running from 7am to 10pm on weekdays and 9am to 10pm on weekends, riders can book trips through the Downtowner mobile app or by calling the dispatch number. The mobile app also provides an estimated wait time and allows riders to track their driver’s arrival.
Funding challenges
Last year, Carbondale secured a Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) grant to fund the six-month pilot program. The initiative required a 50% match of $181,500 from the Town of Carbondale, and took ridership usage and community feedback into consideration to extend the service into 2025.
While the service has been well-received, funding remains a critical concern. With operational costs nearing $1 million annually, Carbondale’s ability to sustain the Downtowner heavily depends on support from RFTA. “If RFTA isn’t helping pay for it, Carbondale is really not going to be able to afford it,” Carbondale Town Manager Lauren Gister explained. Discussions are underway within RFTA’s First/Last Mile Mobility Advisory Board Committee to explore dedicated revenue sources to secure the service’s long-term viability.
The Downtowner’s role in the Town’s multimodal transit strategy complements RFTA’s Carbondale Circulator buses and WE-cycle bike stations. However, seasonal challenges, such as shorter daylight hours and colder winter weather, amplify this service’s importance for those who want to avoid biking or walking long distances after dark.
Meeting community needs
Serving as a crucial link for residents, workers and visitors who rely on alternative transit options to navigate Carbondale, Downtowner users have shared positive feedback about the service. A Glenwood Springs resident who relies on public transportation to commute described the Downtowner as a game-changer. “Before it was available, I had to walk long distances to appointments or events. Now, I can get where I need to go much faster,” she said.
However, the service’s popularity has also occasionally created longer wait times, with users and drivers suggesting the need for an additional van to meet demand.
Looking ahead
The extension through 2025 provides an opportunity to explore enhancements to the Downtowner’s fleet, including the potential addition of electric or hybrid vehicles. Additionally, town officials hope to involve the community in shaping the future of the service.
The WE-cycle program, launched in Carbondale in August 2023, complements the Downtowner by offering bike-share options. However, as Gister noted, the colder months present challenges for cycling, making the Downtowner an ideal year-round alternative.
As the Downtowner continues to bridge transportation gaps, Carbondale’s leaders remain optimistic about its potential to enhance people’s quality of life. By offering accessible, sustainable transit options, the Town aims to reduce reliance on personal vehicles and foster a more connected community. “It’s kind of a conundrum. We have all these great opportunities, but how they get paid for on a long-term basis is important, too,” Gister concluded.
