-A message from Tanya Allen, Executive Director of Core Transit
Almost exactly one year ago, Core Transit (then still called the “EVTA”) made good on its first big promise: launching fare-free transit service from Eagle to Vail, including Minturn. We’ve been on a roll since, with incredible results: record ridership levels, up 37% from 2023 to 2024 and pacing even higher for 2025. Over 99% service reliability, thanks to full staffing and a waiting list for open operator positions. Recognition as Colorado’s Large Community Transit Agency of the Year for 2024, along with $4.5 million in Federal grant dollars to assist with upgrading our aging vehicle fleet. Additional grant funding for 12 months of fare-free youth travel systemwide, and acknowledgement by the Vail Valley Partnership for our contributions to the community. Those are a few headlines from the last 12 months, but they only tell part of our story.
The bigger story is less sensational but arguably just as significant: our commitment to transforming transportation in Eagle County, supported by the hard work and dedication of Core Transit staff, the elected officials who serve on the Core Transit Board, and new voter-approved funding that we quickly put to work.
The fare-free service launched in May of 2024 was funded by the new 0.5% Core Transit sales tax that united the Towns of Avon, Eagle, Minturn, Red Cliff and Vail; Beaver Creek Metro District; and unincorporated Eagle County under the umbrella of a new regional transportation authority. This was a new beginning, and called for a new brand. In July of 2024, we ditched the uninspiring EVTA moniker and launched Core Transit. The change was about more than just a fresh new logo (though it’s a favorite!)—it was about embracing a people-first approach that highlights the importance of connecting with the community in a multi-cultural way. Fittingly, we introduced our fresh new bus design at the Eagle County Fair and Rodeo, a quintessential community event that brings everyone – locals and visitors – together to delight in the history, diversity, and unique charm of our community.
On August 4, 2024, we officially took over regional transit operations from Eagle County. Literally overnight, we grew from approximately 10 to over 100 employees as we welcomed many from ECO Transit into our ranks. In preparation for this enormous step, our administrative team executed multiple once-in-a-lifetime projects like creating new pay and benefit structures, launching new IT systems, and developing a financial reporting infrastructure. Success was a seamless transition for employees and customers, and while we weren’t perfect, we’re proud of how close we came to the mark.
Core Transit believed putting people first would deliver results, and it has. We’re proud of our competitive base wages, our 10% retirement match available on day one to all employees with no vesting, 100% health insurance premium covered for anyone who works 20+ hours/week, and the 4 weeks paid vacation (plus 13 holidays) that begin accruing to everyone in their very first year. We’re also committed to developing an employee housing program, with approximately 45 employees currently taking advantage of below-market options we provide.
With our eye-catching buses on the road almost 24/7, it’s easy to forget that Core Transit is about even more. Core Transit also plays a role in attracting new flights to the Eagle County Airport through Minimum Revenue Guarantee funding we provide to our partner, the EGE Air Alliance. EGE Airport’s record-breaking 2024-25 winter season was thanks in part to our $700,000 contribution toward attracting new flights.
Looking ahead, Core Transit is just getting started. The next milestone will be completion of our inaugural 10-Year Transit Development and Capital Plan this summer. The plan is the result of extensive public outreach, including both English and Spanish-speaking focus groups. It will outline our vision to enhance and expand the system over our next decade in a financially sustainable way. In addition, we’re tackling another big issue: the age and condition of our vehicles. In the last 12 months, we’ve entered into new maintenance agreements and begun purchasing new vehicles, including two battery electric buses. Twelve more buses – 11 of them hybrids – are on the way in the next 24 months.
With all of these big things going on, we haven’t lost sight of the most important thing: the welcoming, accessible, dependable and rewarding service our staff offers every day. We look forward to seeing you on board soon.
For more details on our services, upcoming schedules, and how you can get on-board, visit CoreTransit.org.