Improvements include additional paved parking, landscaping, and more
PITKIN COUNTY, COLO. (Oct. 26, 2023) - A ribbon cutting event at the Brush Creek Park and Ride on October 26 marked the official unveiling of several improvements on the property, which serves about 250,000 transit users each year. Construction over the summer led to additional paved parking and landscaping as well as infrastructure for future EV stations and restroom facilities. In addition, new safety lighting will be added later this year.
“These added benefits will make usage of the parking area more enjoyable for the public who choose transit for their commuting needs. Riding RFTA is not only a comfortable way to get to work, it is also a gift to the planet. Thanks to those who choose not to put another vehicle on our roads – you are helping reduce emissions and traffic,” said Francie Jacober, Chair of the Pitkin County Board of Commissioners.
“This project increased the number of paved parking spaces at the Intercept Lot from 200 to 400. Our hope is this expansion meets capacity needs and ushers in increased usage of the Roaring Fork Valley’s robust public transit system. From day one, the EOTC has been committed to getting more vehicles off the road. Improvement projects like this encourage that effort,” said Tom Fridstein, Town of Snowmass Village Council member.
The project was a collaborative effort with funding from the Federal Highway Administration and the Elected Officials Transportation Committee, a public transit advisory committee comprised of elected officials from the City of Aspen, Town of Snowmass Village, and Pitkin County. Other partners included the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA). The Colorado-based civil construction firm Seite, Inc. led the construction project.
“The Federal Highway Administration is proud to be part of such an effective collaboration. It led to the successful completion of an improvement project for the public that aligns with our mission to deliver a world-class system that advances safe, efficient, equitable, and sustainable mobility choices for all while strengthening the Nation's economy,” said Ryan Balchuck, construction operations engineer for the Federal Highway Administration.
The revamped Brush Creek Park and Ride property opened to the public in September. The project cost was about $8 million.
The EOTC is responsible for allocating a countywide 0.5% sales tax and a 0.5% use tax fund. The funds were approved by voters in 1993 and their purpose is to finance, construct, operate, and manage a mass transportation system in the Roaring Fork Valley. Learn more about the EOTC.
Media contact: Marci Suazo, Pitkin County Communications Manager, marci.suazo@pitkincounty.com, (970) 309-2343