GDT > RTD Rider’s Guide > Routes > Free MetroRide
The Free MetroRide ran from Union Station on the west end to Civic Center Station on the east end, covering key stops along 18th and 19th streets. Originally introduced as an efficient alternative to relieve congestion on the Free MallRide for those traveling to and from Downtown office buildings, it was suspended at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Map & Schedule
The Free MetroRide was brought back on a temporary basis in Summer 2024 to provide riders affected by the Downtown Light Rail Loop Reconstruction project a way to get to and from Union Station where most trains have been detoured to. Unlike its earlier incarnation, the buses ran every 10 minutes from approx. 6am to 7pm, 7 days a week.
RTD has announced it plans to reinstate the Free MetroRide from the May 2025 schedule changes running on its original schedule from 6-9am and 4-7pm on weekdays. Frequency will be every 10 minutes.
Vehicles Used
The Free MetroRide uses diesel New Flyer XD60 articulated transit buses which are currently in storage. Buses are equipped with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Ridership
| Year | Total |
| 2018 | 824,000 |
| 2019 | 707,000 |
| 2020 | 139,000 * |
| 2021 | Suspended |
| 2022 | Suspended |
| 2023 | Suspended |
| 2024 | 170,000 ** |
* Service suspended in April 2020 due to Covid-19 pandemic.
** 7 days a week daytime service ran from May to September only.
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