MCTS Chief Financial Officer, Tim Hosch says early estimates show 2023’s ridership numbers around 21 million which would be around 70 percent of pre-pandemic levels. In the three full years since the pandemic, average ridership was just 15.1 million. From 2017-2019, ridership numbers averaged 31.3 million. Ridership took a dip during the pandemic, but numbers are still in the millions. That’s not to say MCTS buses are ghost towns on wheels. The system has lost 10 routes and 1,422 bus stops since 2017. But, it’s no secret the Milwaukee County Transit System was hit hard by the pandemic, but it’s on the rebound. “I don’t have a vehicle so it’s convenient for me to get to where I need to get to,” Terence Pruitt said.Ĭonvenient and affordable words riders use to describe riding buses in Milwaukee County in 2023. They ride the bus every single day as their primary mode of transportation.

It’s not the warmest welcome coming from the Siri-adjacent female voice, but it’s one riders like Keenan have grown accustomed to. He has to get to work to provide for his family and he depends on the bus to get him there on time.Īs his bus arrived on Capitol Avenue, the doors opened and a familiar automated voice chimed in, announcing the direction and final destination for this bus. Free wifi is included on buses.For Keenan Pemberton, his expectations for the bus aren’t high. Wisconsin Coach has enhanced cleaning procedures in place per CDC guidelines, and also are limiting capacity on its buses for social distancing so riders feel confident about riding our buses safely. Riders can also pay the one-way fare into the fare box when boarding the bus. Students can purchase a ticket book worth 10 rides by calling 26 with a credit card and purchases will be mailed to them. The normal one-way fares are $3.75 and $4.50, so student fares are $2.75 and $3.50. Prices vary based on where you board the bus. Students are eligible for a $1 fare discount from the normal fare when they show a valid student ID. Service may change over time based on rider demand and other factors. Their 901 and 904/905 routes are running at reduced schedules due to COVID-19. Waukesha Coach operates three trips and from UWM for Waukesha Metro Transit, starting September 1st, 2020.

MCTS U-PASSes and Commuter Value Passes are NOT valid on Wisconsin Coach Lines.

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