Bus Rider’s Guide

A Short Guide to Riding the RTA Bus

  • Know your bus schedule and arrive at your bus stop early.
  • If you are at a flag stop, wave to the driver to let them know you are there. This is important because weather conditions and darkness may make it difficult to see.
  • If you are not sure that you are on the correct bus, or if you have any questions regarding how to use the RTA bus system, be sure to ask the driver.
  • Allow exiting passengers to get off the bus before you get on.
  • State your destination clearly to the driver when boarding the bus.
  • If you are not sure where to get off the bus, sit close to the driver and ask the driver to call out your stop.
  • Once the bus is moving please remain seated. Stay alert so that you know when your bus stop is approaching.
  • If your destination is a flag bus stop, you need to push the red “stop” button to alert the driver that you wish to get off at the next stop. Push the button in plenty of time for the driver to be aware that you want to stop at the flag stop and for the driver to be able to stop safely. Drivers are prohibited from stopping anywhere but at authorized bus stops. Flag Stops include:
    • The Tall Texan
    • Ohio Creek Rd.
    • Almont
    • Riverland
    • Brush Creek Rd
    • Riverbend
  • Remember that Highway 135 and many other roads you may cross are highways or very busy streets. Please use caution when crossing these roads.
  • Stand back from the curb or roadside when the bus approaches. Wait for the bus to stop completely before approaching the bus
  • Never cross in front of the bus.
  • Fighting, throwing things, pushing, shouting or loud behavior and vulgar language are forbidden and may result in loss of bus privileges.
  • No firearms, weapons, gasoline, or fireworks of any type are allowed.
  • Skis, snowboards and poles are not allowed in overhead bins. Please hold these items in front of you while riding bus.
  • Only carry-on luggage is permitted on bus and must be carried in your lap or stored in overhead bins.
  • All animals are prohibited from RTA buses except for legitimate service animals under the control of a guest with a disability as permitted by the ADA.
  • Bike racks are available on the RTA buses during the spring, summer, & fall. The racks can carry two or three bicycles and can be in high demand at times.  The racks are available on a first come, first serve basis and bicycles must be secured properly by the passenger.  Bicycles are not allowed on the buses after dark since they block the bus headlights.  Please ask your driver for instructions if you have any questions about how to use the bike rack.
  • Do not use the seats as a foot rest. Please do not put your wet/muddy ski boots on the seats.
  • Drivers have the right to refuse service to intoxicated or problematic persons. It is a federal offense to interfere with a bus operator.
  • Alcohol use and smoking of any kind (including e-cigarettes and vaping) is not allowed on RTA buses.
  • Shirts and shoes are required.
  • Roller-skates and roller blades cannot be worn on the bus.
  • Riders age eight (8) and younger must be under the supervision of a responsible adult at all times when using RTA services.
  • Children must be removed from strollers. You must be able to collapse the stroller and fit it between the seat and yourself. Non-collapsible strollers are prohibited. Children capable of sitting on their own must sit on the seat and not on an adult’s lap.
  • If you have questions regarding how to ride the bus, please call Alpine Express at 970-641-4111.
  • If you need additional assistance or help with a ride, please call Alpine Express at 970-641-4111 to discuss a modification or click here to view our reasonable modification policy and request form pdf.

STATEMENT OF RIGHTS: In accordance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Civil Rights Act of 1964, The RTA does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender. For more information about these statutes, or to file a complaint, contact the RTA designated Disability Rights and Title VI coordinator, Scott Truex, Executive Director, PO Box 1911, Crested Butte, CO. 81224 or email struex@gunnisonvalleyrta.org. For Telecommunication Relay Service, call 1-800-659-2656 (hearing impaired). Individuals will be permitted to uses service animals, as defined within ADA guidelines, if necessary