In May 2026, Intercity Transit will complete the implementation of a system redesign that will increase coverage and frequency throughout Thurston County. “It’s a massive changeover,” says Nick Demerice, Chief Marketing, Communications & Outreach Officer. The planning began after Proposition 1 passed in 2018, which created funds to enhance commuter services, upgrade bus stops, purchase new vehicles, and implement technology improvements. Though the pandemic slowed progress, plans come to full fruition on May 3rd.
Intercity Transit spent extensive time and energy to collect data from riders to provide real solutions for people’s transportation issues. Many people will be pleased about the corridor express that connects the east side of town (the Hawks Prairie Area) to the westside (Capital Mall). Frequency will be increased as well as more direct routes.
The changes will be important to commuters, students, and anyone else who needs a ride. It will be even more helpful to students needing rides to South Puget Sound Community College and The Evergreen State College, as well as rides between high schools and libraries.
“It was a big math equation to figure out the highest and best use for the most good,” says Rob LaFontaine, Deputy Director, Planning. Our community has seen the development of many apartment units while fewer people want to own cars or even get a driver’s license. The availability of public transportation serves a community in many ways, including being environmentally conscious.
Community members may be surprised to learn that riding the bus is free to everyone. It’s easy to plan your trip with help from the Intercity Transit website. Do you or a youth need help figuring out the bus system? The Bus Buddy Program offers one-on-one assistance from volunteers, who are happy to assist. Other services include the Vanpool, bike racks on busses, and the Walk N Roll’s Pedal It Forward. That program provides refurbished bicycles to community members. Walk N Roll also teaches people bike mechanics and reduces the number of bikes ending up in the landfill. Dial-A-Lift is Intercity Transit’s para-transit service for those who cannot use regular busses.
Stay connected with news, map out a route and learn more at the Intercity Transit website.
Mary Ellen Psaltis