Mountain Express suspension update

Figuring out the town shuttle

By Kendra Walker

Note: Currently, the RTA is running on its spring schedule following orders limiting capacity to nine passengers and the driver. If there is room on the RTA bus, it can take people from the Four-way Stop to the mountain.

While local businesses are not fully opened and visitors remain restricted, there is no urgent need to resume Mountain Express bus service. The Mountain Express board of directors will discuss resuming bus service and at what capacity at the May 21 board meeting.

“We’re chomping at the bit to get running again but we don’t want to rush into it either,” said Mountain Express managing director Chris Larsen.

However, Mountain Express is currently making the necessary preparations for bus service to resume. The health and safety of drivers and passengers is a top priority. As part of Mountain Express’ safe plan of operations, safety glass is being installed around the driver area, hand sanitizer dispensers are being installed and measures to keep the number of passengers limited and six feet apart will be implemented.

Management is researching additional local, state and federal safety measures and recommendations regarding PPE and vehicle and facility cleaning and disinfecting.

Once back in operation, “We may start with a spring schedule and possibly start with two town buses to spread people out,” said Larsen. Mountain Express was awarded $268,000 through the CARES Act to go toward lost revenues due to COVID-19, and is currently operating maintenance and bus servicing.

Additionally, the RTA continues to operate with the ability to take passengers to and from Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte, but has had low ridership during the COVID-19 Public Health Orders. The RTA is currently averaging about 2.4 passengers per bus, said RTA executive director Scott Truex.

“There has been a slight increase in the number of passengers riding the GVRTA [Gunnison Valley Rural Transportation Authority] service in the past week or two,” said Truex. “In the past seven days we have averaged 83 passengers per day. This is up from 47 about a month ago.”

Truex also noted that overcrowding has not been an issue and the RTA hasn’t had to refuse a passenger due to health order maximum capacity since March 21.

“The service is currently being provided primarily for essential travel and as things continue to open up, we anticipate more of an increase in the number of passengers,” Truex said.

Mountain Express looks forward to getting the buses up and running safely when the appropriate time arrives. Until then, Mountain Express will keep you informed on plans for resuming service; check the website mtnexp.org for updates.

If you have any questions, please contact Mountain Express at (970) 349-5616.