MORRISON, Colo. — Every year, thousands of people attend a concert at Red Rocks or go to the amphitheater for a hike or views, but getting to and from the venue can be chaotic, especially since public transportation isn't an option.
To get to Red Rocks, concertgoers are limited on how to get there. Some are able to use a ride share service, which can cost upwards to $40 one-way, carpool, or drive their own vehicle, which can include a 30-min drive from Downtown Denver to Red Rocks, or depending where you're traveling from.
Denver City council member for District 9, Darrell Watson, and Jefferson County officials want to change that by including public transportation to the area.
“Parking at Red Rocks and getting out after a concert is extremely difficult, that’s why we’re working with them to identify better options to get there and get out quickly," said Watson.
The goal is to add the RTD W line through Morrison and have a stop in between to Golden, in case there are people who want to hike or enjoy the area, without having to drive and get stuck in traffic.
“We haven’t identified the outcomes yet, but we think some level of public private collaboration for a connector. Some type of bus, or transit that takes us from the W line directly to Red Rocks with stops in between where folks want to be at," said Watson.
"We know that it can not only reduce the carbon footprint impact to our environment, but we can also reduce accidents and congestion through small towns like Golden and Morrison, that really take the brunt of us not having a public option."
Right now, the W line leaves from downtown Denver, heads to Jefferson county, and the last stop ends at the Government Center in Golden.
“We want to work with RTD and ensure the W line is running consistently and it’s running after 2 am, that’s a big deal because concerts end late," said Watson.
Watson and city leaders said the goal is look for funding to help with this idea for public transportation, but are hopeful they will have a pilot program going by 2025.
RELATED: 7 new Red Rocks concerts announced
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