The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has shifted its focus from a long-standing commitment to transitioning its fleet of diesel buses to electric vehicles, opting instead to invest $539 million in new diesel buses over the next five years. This decision reflects a complex interplay of factors, including supply chain challenges, tariffs, and the availability of low-emission vehicles. RTD's Chief Executive Debra Johnson highlighted that the aging diesel fleet must be replaced, but the timing does not align with the readiness of electric alternatives. This pivot not only delays the agency's environmental goals but also risks locking it into diesel operations for another decade, undermining Colorado's climate objectives and RTD's previous leadership in sustainable transit solutions.
Despite the setback, RTD maintains its commitment to acquiring low- and zero-emission vehicles, contingent upon funding and infrastructure developments. The agency's transition plan aims for a significant fleet overhaul by 2050, yet it lags behind other major cities in the U.S. that are advancing more rapidly toward electric and hybrid solutions. Critics, including RTD board members, express concern over the lack of transparency and urgency in addressing the transition, particularly given the missed opportunities for funding and infrastructure improvements. As the agency contemplates borrowing for diesel buses, the pressing need for a strategic pivot toward electric solutions remains paramount, emphasizing the importance of aligning operational decisions with broader environmental goals and public expectations for cleaner transit options.
