MONTROSE, Colo. — Starting February 17th, residents of Montrose and Ridgeway will have a new, convenient way to travel between their towns and Telluride. The San Miguel Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is rolling out a new bus route, part of a broader strategy to enhance public transportation in the region.
Expanding Regional Access
The new route is a key element of SMART’s three-to-five-year plan, as detailed in the 2019 SMART Strategic Operating Plan. It aims to improve transportation links between Montrose, Ridgeway, and Telluride, allowing for more seamless travel between these areas. The expanded service is expected to benefit both residents and visitors, giving them greater access to medical, work, and recreational opportunities.
William Woody, the Public Information Officer for Montrose, spoke enthusiastically about the expansion: “We’ve enjoyed a really great bus service for over 10 years, and so expanding routes, expanding services only help people that live here,” he said. “This connects Montrose with the smaller communities to the south of us.”
Budget and Equipment for the New Route
To fund this new service, SMART’s Board of Directors approved a $110,000 budget. This budget will also support the acquisition of 40 new buses that will be used on both the Montrose and Ridgeway routes. This investment marks a significant commitment to ensuring that transportation options are accessible and reliable for people living in these smaller communities.
The addition of this route is not just about convenience — it’s about providing essential transportation for a variety of needs. According to Woody, the route will help people get to medical appointments, jobs, and recreational areas, improving the overall quality of life in the region.
Cost and Schedule Details
The first bus departing Montrose will leave at 6:00 AM on February 17th from the intersection of N. 2nd and Cascade. The route will offer affordable pricing, with a one-way trip from Montrose to Telluride costing $5 and a trip from Ridgeway costing $4.
- Montrose to Telluride: $5
- Ridgeway to Telluride: $4
This affordable pricing will help ensure that the route remains accessible to a wide range of residents, from those commuting to work to those traveling for leisure or medical reasons.
Looking Toward the Future
The new bus service is just one part of SMART’s long-term plan to increase transportation options in the region. As the service continues to expand, it is expected to support local businesses, tourism, and improve the region’s overall connectivity.
By linking Montrose and Telluride, the new route also creates an opportunity for residents of these communities to explore and enjoy the beauty and culture of both towns. And as SMART’s expansion plans continue, it’s likely that even more routes will be added to better serve this growing region.
