How to Use the Community Transit Network

Pick a bus.
Call, go online or check a map to see which bus will take you where you want to go. Or try RTD's Trip Planner to find a set of options that are sure to get you there.

Find your Stop.
Stops are well-marked by signs. Remember, generally the stop for your return trip will be located across the street from the stop where you got on.  You can find your nearest stop by using Google Maps. Enter your address in the search field and zoom in to street level to see the bus stop nearest you.  It will also show you what routes are served by the stop you select.

Pick a Time.
Check the schedule to find out what time to catch the bus. For the HOP route, use NextBus.com to find out in real time when the next three buses will arrive.

Wait For Your Bus.
Hang out at the designated stop, safely out of the path of the bus.

Verify Your Ride.
Check the electronic destination sign above the front windshield of the bus to make sure it's going where you want to go.

Pay.
You must have exact change if paying with cash. Insert it into the fare box next to the driver as you board the bus. You can also use your Eco Pass or any acceptable form of RTD payment. See RTD fare information.

Ride on.
Stay alert so you know where you are. If you're standing, be prepared for sudden stops by hanging onto a handle.

Transfer.
If you need to change buses along the way to reach your destination, ask the driver for a free transfer when you pay, if you're paying in cash. Your driver will give you a slip of paper that is valid until the time and date shown that allows you to get on the next bus. Sometimes, you'll need to pay more when you board the next bus, but if you have an Eco Pass, you'll never need to get a transfer or pay an additional fee.

Signal.
Let your driver know you want to get off the bus just after he or she has pulled away from the bus stop immediately prior to yours. If you're not sure where you are, just ask your driver. Signal the driver by pulling the cord, pressing the yellow strip on the side of the windows or pushing the button on the ceiling above your seat. The "Stop Requested" sign at the front of the bus will light up.

Get Off.
Exit through the rear door, if there are two. Wait until the bus pulls away from the curb before crossing the street. Don't cross in front of the bus.

Tips for Enjoying the Ride

• One seat per person if the bus is crowded.
• Let passengers exiting the bus get off before you get on.
• Stay seated while the bus is moving. If no seats are available, move to the back of the bus and hold onto the poles or straps provided for your safety.
• Seats near the front of the bus are priority seating for senior citizens and disabled riders. Please be courteous and give them your seat if you see them standing.
• Don't lean against the doors inside a bus.
• Don't forget to take your packages with you.
• Keep aisles clear. Anything you bring on board should be small enough to fit on your lap or at your feet in front of you.
• Please don't engage in idle conversation with the driver. This can distract from safe driving practices and inconvenience other passengers.
• Express and Regional bus passengers by bring food and drink onto the bus, as long as drinks are in a sealed cup with a small opening in the lid.
• Radios/boom boxes may be played only if headphones or ear pieces are used. Talking on cell phones disturbs those around you and may distract the bus driver.
• Babies are welcome if held in your lap. Keep strollers folded up and out of the way. Hold small children securely during your trip.
• Guide, signal and service dogs ride for free with passengers who have visual, hearing or mobility impairments. All other animals are allowed only they're in a cage or carrier.

Last Updated on Friday, 23 October 2009 12:30