Metro Bus is here to help meet your public transit needs. Below is important information for customers riding Metro Bus. Click the buttons to learn more.
Metro Bus Fixed Route buses operate on a system of designated stops. To improve safety, boost reliability and reduce confusion Metro Bus only picks up and drops off passengers at signed bus stops. There are over 700 bus stop signs along Metro Bus routes. When catching a bus, stand near any Metro Bus stop sign and wait for your bus to arrive. To let the Operator know you wish to exit the bus, pull the yellow stop request cord. The Operator will let you off at the next signed bus stop. To find the bus route nearest to you go here or plan your ride with our online Trip Planner.
Bus shelters are great for protection from the elements or relaxation while you’re waiting. Step out of the shelter when you see your bus approaching so the Operator can easily see you. This will help ensure that you’re not missed and allow you to be ready to board and pay your fare quickly.
Metro Bus stop signs represent a designated stop and identify Fixed Routes serving that stop with route number stickers. Bus schedules and the interactive Route Information map show bus stop locations along each route. Most routes have signed bus stops every two to three blocks in urban neighborhoods and four to six blocks along less busy corridors. Each bus stop has a unique ID located on the lower-left corner. This ID can be used to obtain schedule information when calling Metro Bus or using the online Trip Planner. Please remember that traffic, weather and other circumstances may affect arrival times.
If a passenger violates any of the above policies, the Operator may refuse boarding or may ask the passenger to leave the bus. Metro Bus may prosecute any person who violates the law.
All of our Fixed Route buses are wheelchair accessible. Dial-a-Ride certified customers who need PCA assistance to travel on Fixed Routes are given a special ID card to show the Operator. This card allows the PCA to ride free. Please call 320.252.1010 to request an ID for your PCA.
Once the bus has come to a complete stop, the Operator will extend the lift or ramp. After paying your fare, please navigate to the first available seat.
Each Fixed Route bus has two spaces for passengers in wheelchairs. These spaces include chair securements and safety belts for your protection. Customers requiring the lift or ramp should be prepared to board first.
While waiting to board, position yourself 7 to 10 feet from the curb. This allows enough room for the lift or ramp to be deployed properly. Metro Bus Fixed Route Operators are trained in operating accessible features.
When the lift or ramp is lowered, the Operator will indicate when it is safe to board. The lift will beep when it is in motion. If you use a wheelchair, we recommend that you back the chair onto the lift, however, it is acceptable to board facing the Operator. Make sure your brakes are locked. Handrails are provided for extra safety. An attendant may ride on the lift with you and help you secure the safety belts.
The Operator is required to make sure your chair is secured. The lap belt should be used at all times, unless it is physically impossible to do so.
If more than two passengers in wheelchairs need the bus, the Operator will tell any others when the next bus is scheduled to arrive. If the waiting time is longer than 30 minutes, the Operator will arrange an alternate vehicle to serve those customers.
To let the Operator know you wish to exit the bus by pulling the yellow stop request cord. The Operator will let you off at the next signed bus stop.
Please use the rear door to exit the bus and allow customers not using the lift or ramp to exit first. The Operator then will activate the lift or ramp for those who need to use it. If needed, the Operator will help you unbuckle the wheelchair belts and position your chair on the lift. On the lift, lock your brakes and shut off the power on motorized wheelchairs. If possible, hold the handrails.
When you reach ground level, unlock your brakes or turn on your power switch and move away from the lift. Likewise, customers who stand on the lift should face outward and hold onto the handrails as the Operator lowers the lift to ground level.
For more information about accessible Metro Bus Fixed Route service, call the Metro Bus Operations Manager at 320.529.4481, or email us.
All Fixed Route buses are equipped with bicycle racks that can transport up to two bikes at a time. Bicycle riders have an easy way to safely get across town or just a few blocks with Metro Bus’s Bike & Board program. Take your bike with you on your bus trip. If the nearest Metro Bus route is beyond walking distance or inclement weather stops you from riding your bike, you can take your bike to the bus stop, load it on a Metro Bus and proceed on your way.
It is easy to use the Metro Bus Bike & Board rack. Instructions are printed directly on the rack mounted on the front of the bus. Follow the instructions on the rack and your bike will be held securely in place.
The bike rack will hold most wheel and frame sizes including children’s bikes. Bikes can be loaded and unloaded from the outside first then the inside rack position. The bikes on the rack do not touch each other, the bus, or other vehicles.
Metro Bus is not liable for damage to the bicycle and other property connected to the bicycle, except in the event that Metro Bus is found to be negligent or at fault in an accident. Theft, damage, injury loading and unloading, acts by a third party, and all other incidents are solely the responsibility of the rider/cyclist.
For more information call 320.251.7433 or email us.
