KEY INFO BEGINNING NOVEMBER 3:
- As we optimize our routes, the distance between some bus stops will widen, but bus frequency will increase on almost every weekday route, creating more reliable service.
- Four routes will be discontinued, but 19 routes will be redesigned to ensure there are public transportation options for impacted areas.
- While fare prices were originally scheduled to return to pre-pandemic rates, MATA leadership recognizes the need to first increase riders' value. Therefore, price increases will be on hold until 2025.
BUS TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
Is my bus route changing?
Effective November 3rd, we will introduce 19 redesigned routes to ensure coverage of the four following eliminated routes:
- 16-Southeast Circulator
- 28-Airport (an extension of Route 4 will now cover this area)
- 34-Central & Walnut Grove
- 37-Perkins
Why are the routes changing?
We must optimize all routes using our existing budget. While the distance between some bus stops may widen, the time spent waiting for a bus will shorten.
Which bus routes will see increased frequency?
Beginning November 3, we aim to improve bus frequency on all our routes. However, we’ll greatly improve weekday frequency to every 30 minutes on the following routes:
- 1-Union
- 8-Chelsea
- 42-Crosstown
- 50-Poplar
- 52-Jackson
Why is MATA redesigning the bus routes?
We were doing more than our budget and fleet could sustain, which resulted in extremely long wait times and unhappy riders. By optimizing service, we can improve overall reliability.
Beginning November 3, will my bus always be on time?
Change takes time, but soon, your bus will most often arrive according to the schedule.
Will we experience price changes?
No. Prices will remain the same for now and will not return to pre-COVID fare pricing until sometime next year. While fare prices were originally scheduled to return to pre-pandemic rates, MATA leadership recognizes the need to first increase riders' value.
ON-DEMAND SERVICES
Is my on-demand service changing?
Effective November 3rd, Ready! Zone 3-Cordova will be discontinued due to low use. However, riders there can utilize the existing bus schedule.
How will I schedule my on-demand services?
You will continue to use the Ready! by MATA app to schedule your on-demand services.
What’s the latest time I can schedule an on-demand service?
On weekdays, final requests for on-demand services must be made by 5:30 p.m. That will allow the time needed to complete the rides before services end at 6 p.m.
Will we experience price changes?
No. Increased pricing for On-demand service is on hold until next year as MATA leadership recognizes the need to increase riders' value first.