Downtown Denver survey shows people are opting to drive over using public transit

DENVER -- For the first time in five years, Downtown Denver commuters are choosing to drive alone over using the city's public transit, according to a recent survey.

The Downtown Denver Partnership's annual commuter survey showed employee incentives can play a large role when it comes to whether or not people use transit. Of those who drive alone to work, a vast majority would be open to considering other alternatives.

"I choose to drive in just because of the time schedule; when I like to come to work, it doesn’t always equate to when a bus is available and I don’t have access to the light rail," said Jeff Kindred.

For commuters, the decision often comes down to convenience. Kindred told Denver7 it takes him 12 minutes to drive but 20 to 25 minutes to take the bus.

The number of people driving alone increased to 40.3 percent but it's not too far off from the 39.6 percent of people opting to use transit instead.

"Our largest challenge is we’ve created an excellent regional transit system but we still have issues with local connectors," said Stuart Anderson, executive director for Transportation Solutions.

Survey results are available online.