DENVER, CO Bustang, the new interregional express bus service from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), delivered its first passengers to Denver's Union Station today. The much-anticipated service connects major populations, employment centers and local transit entities along the I-25 Front Range and I-70 mountain corridors during peak weekday commuting times.

"Bustang introduces a new era of transportation to Colorado commuters," CDOT Executive Director Shailen Bhatt said. "When we look back on today, several years out from now, I think people will mark the launch of Bustang as one crucial step we took to create the most healthy multi-modal transportation system in the country, getting our customers where they need to go more safety, easily and more confidently than even before."

Offering three major service routes, Bustang responds to demand from the traveling public for a reliable transit alternative along the highest traveled corridors in the state.

"Bustang is an example of a great decision and a smarter way to address congestion that finds its roots in our past," said Governor John Hickenlooper. "When the legislature passed the FASTER bill in 2009, they made transit a priority. CDOT looked at the travel landscape and realized that the best use of those funds would be to provide the connections from transit system to transit system, linking the mountains and Front Range to Denver."

The bus service will stop at existing park-and-ride locations along each route with fares reflected by length of trip, with routes ended at Denver Union Station. "Literally, someone could travel from Glenwood Springs, hop on the new A line to the airport and fly around the world - never stepping into a car," added Bhatt.

Multiple trip packages will be available at a discounted price as well as a 25 percent discount for persons with disabilities and seniors 65 years old and older. Bus schedules and fares are available for download online. The Bustang fleet will feature 13 buses in rotation on each respective route. Each coach is equipped with restrooms, bike racks, free WiFi, power outlets and USB ports. Coaches offer a 50-passenger capacity and are handicap accessible.