RTD FlexRide Expands in Denver: DTC Service & How to Book | 2026 Update

DENVER (Feb. 9, 2026) – The Regional Transportation District (RTD) of Denver, Colorado, is streamlining its FlexRide on-demand bus service in the Denver Tech Center (DTC) area, consolidating eight previously separate service zones into a single, unified DTC FlexRide area effective February 1st. The move aims to improve accessibility and simplify transit options for commuters and residents navigating the busy southeast corridor.

The consolidation encompasses the Arapahoe, Belleview, Dry Creek, Meridian, Orchard, Lone Tree, South Inverness, and North Inverness areas. Previously, each of these zones operated as individual FlexRide service areas. According to RTD officials, the change is intended to eliminate confusion and provide a more seamless experience for passengers connecting to locations within the DTC and beyond.

FlexRide, launched to address first- and last-mile transportation gaps, operates as a shared-ride service, accommodating up to 14 passengers. It functions as a crucial link between RTD’s fixed-route bus and rail lines and destinations not directly served by traditional public transit, including business parks, medical facilities, shopping centers, and Park-n-Ride locations.

A key change accompanying the consolidation is the discontinuation of scheduled departure service within the DTC area that did not require a reservation. Passengers now must book your trip for any FlexRide service within the DTC, according to RTD. Reservations can be made as little as ten minutes in advance, offering a degree of flexibility for spontaneous travel.

RTD provides multiple avenues for booking FlexRide trips. Customers can utilize the RTD desktop app, download the dedicated FlexRide smartphone app (available on both iOS and Android platforms), or contact the RTD Customer Care team directly at 303.299.6000. Language assistance is available for non-English speakers; pressing ‘2’ connects callers to Spanish-language support, while ‘8’ provides access to assistance in other languages.

The cost of a FlexRide trip remains consistent with standard RTD fares. Special discounts, including reduced fares for seniors and individuals with disabilities ($1.50 per one-way trip, according to benefitscheckup.org), are applicable. Youth aged 19 and under continue to ride RTD services, including FlexRide, at no cost.

The DTC FlexRide operates Monday through Friday, from 5:30 a.m. To 7:00 p.m. Service is not available on Saturdays, Sundays, or public holidays. This limited operating schedule may present challenges for individuals relying on FlexRide for weekend or evening travel.

The RTD FlexRide app, available for both iOS and Android, offers a fully integrated route planner that combines bus, rail, and FlexRide options. The app allows customers to plan and reserve rides directly from FlexRide service areas, utilizing a current location, a specific address, or a point selected on a map. If a pick-up location falls outside a FlexRide service area, the app automatically displays alternative transportation options.

However, user reviews of the RTD FlexRide app, as of March 17, 2022, highlight some usability concerns. One user noted difficulties with accurately setting departure and arrival locations, with the app frequently altering selections made on the map. Another user expressed frustration with the lack of options for modifying rides or contacting drivers directly, finding that the contact button simply opened the booking notes section. These issues suggest potential areas for improvement in the app’s functionality and user experience.

The introduction of the DTC FlexRide represents RTD’s ongoing effort to adapt its services to meet the evolving transportation needs of the Denver metropolitan area. By consolidating service areas and emphasizing on-demand booking, the agency aims to enhance convenience and accessibility for its riders. The success of this consolidation will likely inform future adjustments to the FlexRide network and potentially influence transit planning in other parts of the RTD district.

For those unfamiliar with the service, RTD provides a video tutorial, How to Ride, available on YouTube, offering a visual guide to utilizing FlexRide. Further information about FlexRide, including service area maps and booking instructions, can be found on the RTD website.