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Agency reports 25% MetroLift surge, 2% fixed-route dip; commissioners weigh smaller buses
Summary
Staff presented 2025 ridership data showing a 2% drop in fixed-route ridership and about a 25% increase in MetroLift (61% over three years). Commissioners discussed shifting toward smaller buses or MetroLift-style vehicles on low-ridership routes but were cautioned about vehicle life and suitability.
Transit staff presented the 2025 ridership report and commissioners discussed vehicle-sizing options at the Feb. 5 meeting.
Staff said fixed-route service saw a 2% decrease in ridership from 2024, noting that a June consolidation cut service hours by about 15% and that some ridership decline was expected. By contrast, MetroLift ridership finished the year with approximately a 25% increase and has grown roughly 61% over the past three years, the staff presentation showed. "MetroLift ridership's taken off, and it's the highest MetroLift ridership we've had since 2012," staff said, adding that passengers-per-hour metrics improved after the route consolidation.
Commissioner Joe Piper and other members asked whether the agency should move to smaller buses (a 29-foot Gillig) or more MetroLift-style vehicles on low-ridership routes. Staff noted the state contract for Gillig buses shows only about a 1% capital-price decrease between 35-foot and 29-foot models, and that MetroLift-style vehicles are cheaper but are not built for the heavier, longer-duty fixed-route service and may not meet a seven-year life requirement for typical fleet replacements.
Commissioners requested staff provide comparative cost and lifecycle data so the commission can evaluate whether shifting to smaller buses or deploying more on-demand vehicles on certain routes makes fiscal and operational sense. The ridership report was received for information (no formal vote).
