On July 26th an article was published in the Crested Butte News sharing the intent of Mountain Express (MX) to cancel the Snodgrass and Columbine bus routes and replace with an on-demand pilot program using 3 mini-vans.  Both routes have been in existence for 20+ years and have been enjoyed by residents and visitors alike to get to the base area to ski, hike Snodgrass, and connect to the Crested Butte town bus. 

The claim by MX is this will be an enhancement of service, however what has proven in other mountain communities is we will experience unpredictable wait times up to 90+ minutes during busy periods, reduced ability for minors to use transit, and increased traffic on our already congested Roads. Mountain Express is attempting to cancel both bus routes without community or Mt. Crested Butte town council and staff feedback.  

Our request is that Mountain Express engage with the community to gather feedback as well as complete an analysis on the need for an on-demand service.  Our expectation is any piloting of an on-demand service will have no effect on existing bus routes in Mt. Crested Butte. 

The Mt. Crested Butte Town Council is meeting Aug. 15th at 6pm to discuss this matter.  In addition to signing this petition, individuals are encouraged to write staff and attend Town Council meeting virtually or in person. 

https://mtcb.colorado.gov/government/town-council