Yampa Valley RTA Proposes A Seven-Day Bus Service in South Routt
Yampa Valley RTA Proposes A Seven-Day Bus Service in South Routt. A bold new chapter in regional transportation is emerging as the proposed Yampa Valley Transportation Authority (YVTA) outlines plans to bring seven-day bus service to South Routt. If supported by voters in the upcoming fall ballot, this proposal could transform mobility in the Yampa Valley region—connecting rural communities like Yampa, Oak Creek, and others more effectively to Steamboat Springs and beyond.
This article explores the proposed plan in detail, highlighting the potential benefits, financial implications, and how it aligns with broader transit goals in Routt County.
What is the Yampa Valley Transportation Authority (YVTA)?
The Yampa Valley Transportation Authority (YVTA) is a proposed Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) designed to improve public transit options across Routt County and neighboring areas. The authority aims to address a growing demand for daily public transportation connecting smaller towns with major service centers like Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley Regional Airport.
Proposed Seven-Day Bus Service in South Routt
One of the most impactful features of the YVTA proposal is the introduction of a daily bus route through South Routt. This service would connect Yampa, Oak Creek, and other surrounding communities to Steamboat Springs through multiple 20-passenger buses running every morning and evening.
Proposed Bus Route and Frequency
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Route | Yampa → Oak Creek → Steamboat Springs |
| Bus Size | 20-passenger buses |
| Operation | Morning and evening service |
| Frequency Option 1 | 90-minute intervals (each way, during peak hours) |
| Frequency Option 2 | 45-minute intervals (alternative proposal) |
| Seasonal Add-On | Activity bus during peak tourist seasons |
According to transportation consultant Bill Ray, the service model is still in development. He emphasized that the final decisions regarding scheduling and routing will be made by the RTA board, once the authority is formally created.
Community Involvement and Governance
An Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) has already been approved by Yampa’s Town Board, along with approvals from Steamboat Springs, Routt County, Hayden, and Craig. Oak Creek is expected to deliberate and possibly approve the agreement soon.
While each community’s approval is crucial, the formation of the RTA can proceed even if not all municipalities opt in. This collaborative approach ensures that the needs of individual communities are respected, even within a broader regional framework.
Addressing Concerns from Yampa Residents
Public feedback during Yampa’s first IGA hearing revealed concerns about potential underutilization of the bus service. Some questioned whether the effort was justified for a town with just 400 residents. Others raised practical concerns, such as the longevity of service in the absence of strong ridership.
Bill Ray responded candidly:
“If ultimately there is no ridership, then yeah, there would be hard decisions to make. But the important thing is, if the town of Yampa joins the RTA, it will have a seat at the decision-making table.”
Local Needs Highlighted by Mayor Geilert
Yampa Mayor Stacey Geilert highlighted a key difference between Yampa and other towns: lack of a local grocery store. Unlike residents of Craig or Hayden, Yampa residents must travel to Oak Creek or Steamboat Springs for basic groceries. A daily bus route would offer significant relief, especially for those without personal vehicles.
“That’s a huge thing,” said Mayor Geilert.
Funding the Yampa Valley RTA
The estimated annual cost to operate the YVTA is between $9 million to $10 million. The most prominent funding strategy under consideration is a regional sales tax ranging from 0.5% to 1%.
Funding Sources and Community Polling
Funding will likely come from a combination of sources:
- Regional sales tax (main source)
- Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp. (potential contributions via city lift tax negotiations)
- Local government contributions
- Federal or state transportation grants
Officials are conducting polls in each member community to gauge support for different funding options, tailoring questions to address specific local concerns.
Potential Transit and Infrastructure Improvements
The YVTA isn’t just about getting people from point A to B. The proposal includes a comprehensive strategy to modernize regional infrastructure, increase accessibility, and promote sustainable commuting.
YVTA Eight Core Transit Goals
| Goal | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Expand Bus Frequency | Increase buses on U.S. Highway 40 between Steamboat and Craig |
| 2. New Craig Route | Establish a local circulator route within Craig |
| 3. South Routt Connection | Launch new bus service to South Routt and unincorporated communities |
| 4. Airport Transit | Introduce ground transportation to/from Yampa Valley Regional Airport |
| 5. Bus Stop Development | Create new stops and upgrade existing ones |
| 6. Park & Ride Facilities | Build lots along major corridors to encourage carpooling |
| 7. Safety Improvements | Install crosswalks, pedestrian zones, and wildlife crossings |
| 8. Support Rail Options | Explore future rail-based commuting support |
Seasonal “Activity Bus” Concept
Beyond daily commuters, the YVTA also envisions a seasonal “activity bus” tailored to peak periods such as winter tourism and summer festivals. This flexible option would enhance accessibility for visitors and seasonal workers traveling from more remote parts of the valley.
Potential Impact on Regional Development
The introduction of a robust transit system could have far-reaching effects on economic development, housing access, and employment opportunities across the valley. Smaller towns like Yampa could become more viable for working families who commute to Steamboat or Hayden, but prefer to live in quieter, rural environments.
Voter Participation & Timeline
The proposed RTA formation and funding structure will be decided by voters in each member community during the August 2025 elections. Each community will vote independently, but the RTA can still be formed even if not all participate.
Conclusion
The Yampa Valley Transportation Authority represents a transformative opportunity for South Routt and surrounding regions. With thoughtfully designed routes, collaborative governance, and community-based funding, the proposed RTA could redefine how people live, work, and move around the Yampa Valley.
