Transit Route Optimization Plan

Introduction

The Town of Vail Transit Department has proposed changes to existing bus routes, including route changes and route frequencies, outlined in a Transit Route Optimization Plan.

The proposed plan, presented to the Vail Town Council in May, is designed to guide the town toward its transportation goals. These goals aim to increase bus ridership across both the Town of Vail and Core Transit systems. The changes are intended to reduce travel time and improve overall efficiency.

The proposed route optimization plan explores multiple bus route options, primarily in West Vail. Scenarios focus on express routes that connect neighborhoods to Vail Village and Lionshead and increasing local service in West Vail neighborhoods.

The plan considers several key developments:

  • The Timber Ridge and West Middle Creek housing projects, which could contribute up to 450 additional daily rides in West Vail.

  • The introduction of a summer paid parking program, which may make free public transit more appealing.

  • Vail Transit’s role as a critical link in the larger regional network, including connections with Core Transit and Bustang, both of which have invested in regional public transportation access.

Project Background

Transportation is one of the town’s five strategic planning priorities. Vail’s transit system aims to compete with private vehicle travel by offering convenient alternatives to single-occupancy car trips. The plan also seeks to expand transit options for employees who live and work in Vail, specifically reducing the percentage of parked vehicles that begin their day in Vail.

  • Strategic Action Plan Goal – By 2029, people who live, work, and recreate in Vail use the Eagle Valley Transportation Authority and Town of Vail Bus Systems as their preferred method of transportation as evidenced by a reduction in the percentage of vehicles parking in the Vail and Lionshead Parking structures that originate from Eagle County
  • Go Vail 2045 Mobility & Transportation Master Plan Goals: Compete with vehicle travel - Provide a convenient alternative to single occupancy vehicle trips to decrease congestion, parking needs and greenhouse gas emissions; Serve employees - Increase transit options for employees living and working in Vail. Coordinate with Core Transit to serve employees traveling regionally for work or essential needs.

Public Input

The transit team is seeking input on the proposed changes. The team will take your feedback into consideration in its finalized plan, which it expects to be presented to Town Council in July. Please take this brief survey, which is open until June 29.

Introduction

The Town of Vail Transit Department has proposed changes to existing bus routes, including route changes and route frequencies, outlined in a Transit Route Optimization Plan.

The proposed plan, presented to the Vail Town Council in May, is designed to guide the town toward its transportation goals. These goals aim to increase bus ridership across both the Town of Vail and Core Transit systems. The changes are intended to reduce travel time and improve overall efficiency.

The proposed route optimization plan explores multiple bus route options, primarily in West Vail. Scenarios focus on express routes that connect neighborhoods to Vail Village and Lionshead and increasing local service in West Vail neighborhoods.

The plan considers several key developments:

  • The Timber Ridge and West Middle Creek housing projects, which could contribute up to 450 additional daily rides in West Vail.

  • The introduction of a summer paid parking program, which may make free public transit more appealing.

  • Vail Transit’s role as a critical link in the larger regional network, including connections with Core Transit and Bustang, both of which have invested in regional public transportation access.

Project Background

Transportation is one of the town’s five strategic planning priorities. Vail’s transit system aims to compete with private vehicle travel by offering convenient alternatives to single-occupancy car trips. The plan also seeks to expand transit options for employees who live and work in Vail, specifically reducing the percentage of parked vehicles that begin their day in Vail.

  • Strategic Action Plan Goal – By 2029, people who live, work, and recreate in Vail use the Eagle Valley Transportation Authority and Town of Vail Bus Systems as their preferred method of transportation as evidenced by a reduction in the percentage of vehicles parking in the Vail and Lionshead Parking structures that originate from Eagle County
  • Go Vail 2045 Mobility & Transportation Master Plan Goals: Compete with vehicle travel - Provide a convenient alternative to single occupancy vehicle trips to decrease congestion, parking needs and greenhouse gas emissions; Serve employees - Increase transit options for employees living and working in Vail. Coordinate with Core Transit to serve employees traveling regionally for work or essential needs.

Public Input

The transit team is seeking input on the proposed changes. The team will take your feedback into consideration in its finalized plan, which it expects to be presented to Town Council in July. Please take this brief survey, which is open until June 29.

Page last updated: 10 Jun 2025, 02:39 PM