Steamboat City Transit secured long-term financial backing through a 20-year contractual agreement
In a significant move for the city of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation (SSRC) has entered into a 20-year agreement to support Steamboat Springs Transit (SST). This agreement, effective from November 1, 2025, and running through October 31, 2045, guarantees an annual contribution of $2.75 million from SSRC towards SST's operational and capital costs.
The deal includes voluntary remittance of sales tax-equivalent payments from SSRC's on-mountain restaurants and retail outlets located outside city limits. This contribution will provide long-term funding for a free transit system that serves as the backbone of the Steamboat Springs community year-round.
The city will continue to determine transit service levels, with the goal of maintaining or enhancing service comparable to the 2024/2025 ski season. The agreement also establishes collaboration initiatives between the city and SSRC focused on ongoing evaluation and improvement of transit service quality.
City Manager Tom Leeson stated, "SSRC's long-standing commitment to public transit and their willingness to formalize and expand that support is valued." He further added, "This partnership is about creating a better experience for the community and guests."
The agreement reflects a shared investment in sustainable transportation and underscores SSRC's belief in reliable, accessible transit. The deal includes built-in annual escalators based on inflation, starting in the fourth year, ensuring the agreement's value keeps pace with the cost of living.
This arrangement formalizes SSRC’s long-standing support for the transit system, reflecting a shared commitment to sustaining free and reliable transit for both residents and visitors. The agreement replaces earlier voluntary tax contribution arrangements and is a testament to the partnership between the city and SSRC.
[1] Steamboat Pilot & Today, "Steamboat Springs, Ski Corp. finalize 20-year transit agreement," August 5, 2025. [2] Steamboat Today, "SSRC offers temporary $1 million transit funding," July 15, 2025. [3] Steamboat Today, "SSRC, city in talks for 20-year transit agreement," June 25, 2025. [4] Steamboat Today, "SSRC, city to finalize 20-year transit agreement," August 3, 2025.
The agreement between Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation (SSRC) and Steamboat Springs Transit (SST) not only includes funding for the transportation system but also signifies a joint investment in sustainable rail industry finance, with an emphasis on reliable and accessible transportation. City Manager Tom Leeson's statement underlines the partnership's goal of enhancing the community's overall experience through this collaboration.
