The largest fare-free initiative in the U.S. takes place right here in Colorado, with San Miguel County as one of the key participants. Currently, there is no cost to ride SMART buses anytime between now and the end of August. Weekday travelers between Rico or Nucla/Naturita to Telluride and back can save as much as $228 by choosing a SMART commute instead of driving. Norwood commuters could save $152.
What is SMART?
SMART stands for the San Miguel Authority for Regional Transportation. It is classified as a Regional Transportation Authority under Colorado law, with broad authority to finance, build, and operate a regional transportation system. The creation of SMART was approved by the voters of Telluride, Mountain Village, and the R-1 School District of San Miguel County in November 2016.
SMART’s Mission
The mission of the San Miguel Authority for Regional Transportation is to deliver safe and reliable transit services and to consistently advocate and promote the use of multi-modal transit systems.
SMART Services
SMART operates and/or funds various services, including:
- Norwood bus service
- Down Valley bus service
- Off-season shuttles between Telluride & Mountain Village
- Lawson Hill enhanced service
- Rico shuttle
- San Miguel County commuter shuttles
- Mountain Village commuter shuttles
- Trails for commuting
- Lawson Hill Park & Ride*
*The Town of Mountain Village provided funding for fifty percent of the Lawson Hill Park & Ride solar panel installation.
SMART Service Areas
The boundaries of SMART include Telluride’s R-1 School District, approximately the eastern portion of San Miguel County, and beyond. The initial SMART membership includes current transit providers in Telluride, Mountain Village, and San Miguel County. The goal is to “start small” and work toward other member jurisdictions in the future. The Towns of Ophir and Sawpit chose not to be included in preliminary SMART inclusion but have the option of joining later.
Why SMART Was Created
- Efficiency: Regional transit can better coordinate planning, service, and infrastructure to deliver coordinated transportation services.
- Economy: Improved services will give businesses, employees, and guests more reliable transit options.
- Reduced Traffic: A convenient, affordable transit system reduces traffic and parking impacts.
- Green Choice: Fewer vehicles on the roads mean improved air quality.
- Grants: Offers more leverage for our region to obtain expanded funding from grants.
- Access: Increases mobility for everyone in our region.
Future Plans for SMART
SMART will be undertaking a planning process to develop a three- to five-year strategic operating plan. As part of that process, they will analyze the current transit route structure and services that SMART is offering to identify where improvements can be made. Transit riders and the general public will have an opportunity to provide feedback during that process.
Visit smarttelluride.colorado.gov for more information.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the zero-fare bus rides through SMART in San Miguel County. This initiative not only offers substantial savings but also supports sustainable and efficient regional transit. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, take advantage of these fare-free rides and explore the beauty of Telluride and its surrounding areas.
For more information on living in Telluride and finding your dream home in this picturesque region, contact Anne-Britt Ostlund at Mountain Rose Realty. Your journey to owning a piece of Telluride real estate starts here!
