Huntsville Transit surges with record ridership as additional upgrades near completion

In 2023, Huntsville Transit experienced a notable resurgence in ridership, marking a steady rebound following the initial downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fixed route ridership reached 94% of pre-pandemic levels, while paratransit routes saw an impressive 97% return.

The Orbit fixed-route buses carried 630,569 passengers in 2023, the highest figure since the pre-pandemic peak of 671,459 riders in 2019. This represents a remarkable 29% increase from the lowest traffic year of 2021 and a notable 13% rise compared to 2022.

Similarly, Access paratransit served 100,832 riders in 2023, the most since 2019, indicating a robust 38% surge from the pandemic’s onset in 2020 and a significant 20% rise from 2022.

“We realize the critical role Huntsville Transit has in the lives of our residents, and we are excited to see our ridership numbers continue to increase,” said Quisha Bryant, Director of Huntsville’s Department of Parking and Public Transit. “Moving forward, we want to maintain our ridership growth and we have initiated steps to maximize our efficiency.”

As construction wraps up on the new transit transfer station on Pratt Avenue, Huntsville Transit gears up to provide an enhanced experience for passengers. The state-of-the-art facility prioritizes safety with features like a security fence and upgraded surveillance. Inside, passengers will enjoy a comfortable waiting area equipped with charging ports, while employees will have a designated break space and ticket office.

Externally, the station boasts a 400-foot-long bus platform, accommodating larger buses and shielded from inclement weather by covered 45-foot bus bays. Real-time electronic signs will offer up-to-date information on arrivals and departures, ensuring a seamless journey for commuters.

In response to rider feedback, Huntsville Transit has engaged in extensive public consultations to optimize route efficiency, with ongoing adjustments to meet evolving needs.

For more information, please visit www.huntsvilleal.gov/residents/streets/public-transportation.