Community Transit’s 2025 operating budget to increase service and reduce fares
Community Transit’s board of directors has approved the proposed 2025 budget that will add more bus trips and Zip Shuttle service while reducing fares for eligible groups.
Community Transit will add 116,000 hours of service across its bus, vanpool, Zip Shuttle and Dial-A-Ride Transportation (DART) and paratransit service options. Specifically, 64,000 hours of bus service will be added – a 15 percent increase over 2024 levels.
Fares will be reduced to $1 for eligible riders in 2025. Others who qualify based on income for the Subsidized Annual Pass will be able to ride for free.
“Transit needs to be an easy choice for people, so we’re focused on making it an effortless experience for everyone,” said Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz. “With dependable, affordable bus service – and more of it – people will be able to take advantage of regional improvements, like light rail, to get farther, faster and to get around their own community with ease.”
The approved budget will also support the following activities:
- Security upgrades: Security and safety improvements totaling $3.1 million will be added which includes coach operator safety barriers to be installed on buses; cameras and security systems at stations; and transit centers upgrades. Twelve new transit security officers will also be hired to staff the field security unit that patrols transit corridors and responds to incidents.
- Bus stop and park and ride improvements: Riders will see new amenities as $3.7 million will go to bus stop improvements. Station upgrades are planned for Swift Blue and Green lines to match signage, payment system, lighting and security improvements introduced with the Orange Line.
- Swift bus rapid transit (BRT) expansion: $34.3 million will fund three Swift BRT network expansion projects that are underway, plus some remaining work for the Swift Orange line.
- Zero emissions plans: $99.4 million is earmarked for 29 zero-emissions buses, planning work for zero-emissions utility infrastructure and design efforts that will incorporate zero-emissions technology at both the Hardeson Campus and Kasch Park operating bases.
