RTD customers should plan ahead for upcoming snowstorm 

As RTD prepares for the upcoming snowstorm, customers should plan ahead and expect delays and slower travel times if conditions become adverse. Trains and bus operations could face treacherous travel conditions if the metro area receives the snow amounts predicted.

While RTD’s goal is to deliver customers safely to their destinations, travel on snowy days may take longer. Bus schedules can be affected by the same road conditions the public encounters while driving their own vehicles, including wet, icy and slushy roads and traffic delays. Rail vehicles can be delayed because of the need for slower speeds around train stations and through crossings. Access-a-Ride customers should expect delays and consider rescheduling non-essential trips.

RTD staff will be on alert and will take care of issues that may occur. Transit vehicles and infrastructure are designed to sustain in this type of weather. Here are some winter weather procedures RTD implements on the system.

Rail Operations:

• Light Rail Operations will monitor conditions and run “sweep trains” only if needed to keep the overhead wires from icing up 
• Light rail steps are heated to avoid ice and snow build-up
• Crews will exercise track switches as needed so they do not freeze 
• Pantographs, the equipment that connects the train to the overhead wires, have heated connection to the overhead wire, that helps mitigate the ice on the wires
• Vehicle maintenance teams will have mechanics staged in case there are mechanical issues
• Crews will verify all track switch heaters operate and function as intended 
• Crews will verify gate heaters, and house heaters are on and functional
• Crews will install water repellent to crossing gate arms, signals lenses and flashers
• Crews will be on trains and on rail network inspecting track and wire prepared to make repairs as necessary

Bus Operations and FlexRide:

• Bus operators undergo annual refresher training for driving in snow and ice
• Bus operators are trained on how to put chains on tires
• Additional street supervisors are on the system to ensure that stuck buses and accidents due to weather are addressed quickly, and they can monitor bus stops for customers; supervisors will monitor for impacts due to ice and cold
• RTD buses are navigating through the same traffic and road conditions as personal vehicles, so customers are asked to be patient and leave as early as possible for their destination
  

Access-a-Ride

• Bus operators undergo annual refresher training for driving in snow and ice
• Additional street supervisors are on the system to ensure that stuck buses and accidents due to weather are addressed quickly; supervisors will monitor for impacts due to ice and cold
• RTD vehicles are navigating through the same traffic and road conditions as personal vehicles, so customers are asked to be patient and leave as early as possible for their destinations
  

Facilities:

• Crews monitor the situation and will be out clearing crossings and walks as necessary.
• Customers should watch for ice when boarding vehicles as wet shoes can create icy conditions on vehicle steps and in aisles.
  

RTD customers should plan ahead, stay informed and prepare to be outside by dressing appropriately for extreme temperatures. To access the most current information:

• Sign up for Service Alerts
• Check Next Ride for real-time locations of light rail trains and buses
• Call Customer Care, 303.299.6000, 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturdays, Sundays and holidays