Boulder Chamber Transportation Connections partner organization Via Mobility Services, a nonprofit public transit and paratransit provider headquartered in Boulder, has moved to a fare-free model for its paratransit riders.
During the pandemic years, Via Mobility Services adopted a fare-free structure to help riders facing increased financial strain due to medical and food expenses. While fares were reinstated in 2022, senior leadership continued to explore the possibility of eliminating them permanently. The Via Board of Directors recently voted to move forward with a fare-free model for paratransit riders as of September 1, 2025. Previously, fares were $6 for a one-way trip within a town and $12 for a trip between towns.
While this change will reduce revenue, Via Mobility Services plans to offset the loss through private fundraising. More than 70% of Via Mobility Services paratransit riders have annual incomes under $30,000 and often face difficult choices between transportation, food, and medication. Since 1979, Via Mobility Services has provided its unique door-through-door paratransit service, prioritizing the needs of riders and their families. A recent survey conducted by Via Mobility Services confirmed that 80% of riders require door-through-door service. Whether assisting with a wheelchair or providing a caring arm to ensure riders can travel safely from their homes to their destinations, Via Mobility Services has always supported the communities we serve—and we will continue to do so.
This decision could also have the unintended consequence of stimulating additional demand at a time when resources are constrained. With the number of older adults and people with disabilities growing rapidly, the demand for assisted transportation services already exceeds available resources. Despite these challenges, Via Mobility Services advocates at the local, state, and federal levels, while also conducting fundraising and public awareness campaigns.
“As a local nonprofit transit and paratransit provider, we are nimble and empowered to make decisions that are in the best interests of those we serve,” said Frank Bruno, CEO of Via Mobility Services.
“For 46 years, Via Mobility Services has been serving the eight counties from the Denver metro area up to the Wyoming border with skilled paratransit as well as public shuttles and microtransit services. Via Mobility Services uses contract revenue to help fund our paratransit service, as well as our second-responder service to evacuate people in times of crisis. To do this effectively, we must continue to partner with local governments and fundraise, and we will remain creative and innovative in these efforts.”
If you have questions about Via’s new fare policy, please contact Adriana Torres at 303-473-2892.