Here’s how we build an RTD that works for
Everyone
The Bus Needs to Come on Time
Anyone who rides RTD knows the frustration of waiting for a bus that the app says should already be there… only for it not to show at all. Missed or delayed trips make it impossible for people to rely on transit to get to work, school, or appointments. That’s not acceptable, and it cannot be the normal anymore.
As director, I will hold RTD accountable for “ghost buses” that never arrive and demand for more frequent, reliable service. Transit only works if it shows up when you need it, and I’ll make sure it does. We need to hire new teams in charge of service improvements, not just study it.
Building a Cleaner RTD: Climate and Pollution
Colorado’s natural beauty is worth protecting. A stronger transit system helps us cut greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and make it easier to get around without traffic. Shifting more trips from cars to buses and trains is one of the best ways we can preserve our environment while giving people better options.
As director, I will push for an electrified fleet, safer and more reliable service that gets cars off the road, and smart use of RTD’s land for transit-focused housing. These choices mean cleaner air, healthier communities, and a Colorado we can hand to our kids proudly.
Better Stops, Better Homes: Using RTD’s Unused Land for Good
RTD is first and foremost a transit agency, but it also owns large amounts of land, including tens of thousands of parking spaces that often sit underused. At the same time, families across the Front Range are struggling with high housing costs and limited options. We can do better by putting RTD’s land to work for both riders and communities.
As director, I will direct RTD to partner with local governments and affordable housing developers to turn unused parking lots and empty parcels into new homes near buses and trains. Transit-oriented housing makes it easier for people to live close to the service they depend on, reduces traffic, and helps stabilize costs for working families. By aligning land use with transit, we can create walkable neighborhoods that support RTD’s mission while easing Colorado’s housing crisis in all our communities.
Don’t Call it a Comeback: Restoring Broncos, Rockies, and Redrocks Ride
Game day should be about the fun, not the parking lot. I will work to bring back the Broncos, Rockies, and Red Rocks Ride so fans can count on fast, reliable service from park-n-rides straight to the stadium or Redrocks. More buses mean shorter waits, no pricey parking, and a smoother experience for everyone headed to the game or concert.
This is personal for me—my first Broncos game, and my first RTD trip, was thanks to BroncosRide. Restoring this service will cut traffic, ease costs, and remind people of how good RTD can be on both special days and everyday rides.
Safety and Security so Every Rider Feels Safe
Everyone deserves to feel safe when using RTD. Last year there were 496 assaults on transit, that’s not okay and we need to fix it. My goal is simple: trains and buses should be safe enough that you would trust your teen, parent, or friend to ride it every day. Right now, many people don’t feel that way, and we need to change it.
As director, I will double the number of RTD officers on buses and trains, partner with local District Attorneys so crimes are prosecuted equally across the district, and make fare enforcement consistent. I will also push for stronger policies that remove people who commit crimes or threaten others from the system. Safety is about trust and accountability, and I will work to make sure every rider feels confident choosing RTD.
Smarter Spending, Better Service
RTD has to earn the trust of riders and taxpayers by showing that every dollar is spent wisely. Families across our district already stretch their budgets to afford life with inflation and tariffs, they deserve a transit agency that does the same. Too often RTD has wasted money on projects that don’t serve riders, while basic service goes underfunded. That needs to change.
As director, I will focus RTD’s resources on what matters most: safe, frequent, and reliable service. That means cutting back on overhead and perks that don’t improve the rider experience, being transparent with how money is spent, and prioritizing investments that get the most people where they need to go. Fiscal responsibility is not just about balancing the books, it is about making sure every dollar helps riders and strengthens our communities.
Michael is proud to be a candidate affiliated with
Transform RTD is a team of affiliated RTD candidates committed to restoring RTD to its core mission: running a transit system that moves people, strengthens communities, and builds for the next generation of riders. We believe RTD should be safe, reliable, and visionary, an agency that delivers on the promise made to riders across the Front Range.
Together, we’re working to bring accountability, innovation, and community back into transit leadership. Click below to learn more about our mission and the movement to fulfill RTD’s promise.