RTD lifts mask mandate for its vehicles, properties

Effective immediately, masks are no longer required on RTD vehicles or properties, the General Manager and CEO, in concert with agency leaders, announced today.

An RTD requirement that employees and customers mask up had been in effect just under two years, in accordance with Gov. Jared Polis’ order that everyone wear a mask or face covering while out in public and, later, a 2021 security directive from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), following a recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The TSA’s directive was most recently extended through May 3.

On Monday, April 18, a federal judge in Florida ruled that the CDC overstepped its authority when issuing a mask mandate for planes and other forms of public transportation. On the same day, TSA stated that the facial covering requirement will no longer be enforced – and that new security directives scheduled to take effect today would be rescinded.

Signage aboard RTD vehicles and displayed at facilities regarding facial covering requirements will be removed as soon as practicable.

While RTD is rescinding its mask requirement, the agency continues to encourage that individuals wear a mask for the health and safety of themselves and others, as the CDC suggests. The use of facial coverings remains one of the most effective means of curbing COVID-19 transmission, and the CDC recommends that individuals wear facial coverings in indoor public transportation settings.

“As conditions around the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, assessing current health conditions remains critical,” said RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson. “My team has kept in mind the well-being of employees and customers at every turn during this global health emergency. The decision made today reflects RTD’s commitment to the communities served, and health considerations will continue to guide the actions the agency takes.”