Bustang's $28M Shortfall Threatens Service Cuts | The Locally Times
Colorado's statewide Bustang bus system faces a projected $28 million budget shortfall, potentially rolling back service to 2023 levels without new, dedicated funding.
Hundreds of thousands of Coloradans face longer waits and fewer routes as the statewide Bustang bus system stares down a projected $28 million budget shortfall. The deficit, identified in March 2026, puts the future of affordable statewide transit in jeopardy, with service potentially reverting to 2023 levels without new, dedicated funding. ## No New Funding Sought Amidst Crisis Despite the looming crisis, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is not planning to ask lawmakers for a new dedicated funding stream for Bustang, citing ongoing state budget concerns. This decision leaves Bustang's future reliant on temporary funding, with a critical fiscal year 2027 (FY27) sunset approaching for current dollars. CDOT Communications Director Matt Inzeo confirmed that eliminating the $28 million funding gap without new revenue would necessitate a significant reduction in service, aligning it with 2023 levels. Specific details on how and where service would be reduced remain undefined, Inzeo noted, but would be developed if the scenario becomes more likely. ## Short-Term Fixes Won't Last For now, CDOT is propping up current Bustang service with short-term funding, including repurposed air quality dollars and unused transportation funds. Agency leaders readily acknowledge these sources are temporary. Internal planning documents reveal the state is in the early stages of developing a long-term funding solution. Reducing bus frequency, CDOT officials indicate, would generate the most significant savings without entirely eliminating service. However, officials have not ruled out additional changes if the $28 million funding gap persists. For riders, these reductions mean longer wait times, decreased reliability, and fewer transportation options, particularly along key corridors like Interstate 25 and Interstate 70. Commuters, individuals accessing jobs and services, and those seeking affordable travel alternatives would all feel the impact. ## Vision, Unfunded Reality Despite the immediate funding challenges, CDOT continues to champion Bustang's role as a key component of Colorado's transportation future. Officials highlight the system's affordability – with fares significantly lower than driving costs – and its contributions to reducing congestion, improving air quality, and expanding access to jobs and services. Yet, despite these goals, the state has not committed to a dedicated funding source to support them, according to March 2026 statements from state transportation officials.