Who Can I Ask for Help about Bus Service?
Complete information services are available to answer any questions you may have about MTD service. Please do not hesitate to contact the MTD if we may be of assistance in any way. Free route and schedule booklets are available on all MTD vehicles, at Illinois Terminal and other facilities, or can be mailed upon request. Telephone information lines are open whenever MTD buses are operating. Contact the MTD by telephone at 217.384.8188 or by email at mtdweb@cumtd.com. Feel free to ask your vehicle operator for assistance; please try not to distract the operators while they are driving the bus. For those with hearing impairments, the MTD’s TTY number is 217.384.7433. You may contact us by mail at: Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District; 1101 E. University Avenue; Urbana, IL 61802-2009
When are MTD Administration and Operations Offices Open?
Personnel at MTD’s Administration and Operations Offices located at 1101 E. University Avenue in Urbana are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM.
Will Bus Operators Help Me?
Of course! The MTD’s vehicle operators are happy to assist customers. Feel free to ask our operators for help, but please do not block access for boarding/alighting customers and try not to distract the operators while they are driving the bus.
When is Illinois Terminal's Customer Center Open?
The MTD’s Customer Service Center at Illinois Terminal is open seven days a week. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM, and Sunday from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM. Detailed information about all of the services and tenants at Illinois Terminal can be found below.
Where Are the MTD’s Facilities?
MTD facilities include Illinois Terminal, MTD Administration and Operations, Maintenance Department and Bus Garages, Wright Street Transit Plaza, and Downtown Urbana-Lincoln Square transfer facility. Information about each facility can be found in these FAQs.
Where and What is Illinois Terminal?
Illinois Terminal is located at 45 East University Avenue; Champaign, Illinois, 61820. Illinois Terminal provides a central transfer point for MTD buses and other transportation services. All MTD routes operating in Champaign serve this location. A Customer Service Center Desk is located on the First Floor. Its telephone is 217.384.3577, and hours of operation are 8:00 AM-6:00 PM, Monday throuugh Saturday, and 9:00 AM-5:00 PM on Sunday. Individuals can visit the Customer Service Center to purchase an Annual Pass or to obtain a Dash Pass, and have the photos needed for these passes. Student tokens are also available for purchase. Illinois Terminal houses the MTD, Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, Danville JARC, Lex Express, Megabus, Peoria Charter, Illini Express, Amtrak, Subway Sandwich Shop, READY School, and C-U Junior League, and the District Headquarters of Senator Michael Frerichs. CityView meeeting and banquet spaces are available for rentals on Illinois Terminal's fourth floor.
Where are MTD's Administration and Operations Offices?
MTD's Administration and Operations Offices are located at 1101 E. University Avenue; Urbana, IL 61802-2009. Telephone us at 217.384.8188. This is the site of the MTD’s administrative offices, training facilities, and operator services.
Where are the MTD's Maintenance Department and Bus Garage?
These facilities are located at 803 E. University Avenue; Urbana, IL 61802. Located just west of MTD’s offices, this is the site of the MTD’s two large bus garages and maintenance facilities.
What is the Wright Street Transit Plaza?
The Wright Street Transit Plaza is the MTD’s transfer facility located on the University of Illinois Campus on Wright Street between Daniel Street and John Street. The Transit Plaza has sheltered waiting areas and STOPwatch bus departure signs. All Campus routes serve this location, as do many community routes.
Does the MTD Have Facilities in Downtown Urbana?
The MTD has a transfer location with sheltered waiting areas and STOPwatch bus departure signs located on Broadway Avenue in downtown Urbana. The transfer point is just north of Lincoln Square between Main Street and Elm Street. All routes operating in Urbana serve this location.
How Much Does It Cost to Ride the Bus?
The MTD’s one-way regular fare is $1.00. Coins are preferred. Student riders may also pay their fare with discounted tokens or with an MTD discounted pass. Transfer passes are free.
How Do I Pay My Fare?
MTD fareboxes accept only coins, so the MTD encourages that the $1.00 one-way fare be paid with coins or tokens. However, MTD operators will make change for up to $5.00 prior to 7:00 PM. Exact coin/token fare is required after 7:00 PM. Simply deposit any combination of coins equaling $1.00 into the farebox at the front of the bus. Fares may also be paid with student tokens or passes.
Where Can I Buy Student Bus Tokens?
You may purchase student bus tokens from your bus operator prior to 7:00 PM (but they can make change only for up to $5.00), at the MTD Customer Service Center at Illinois Terminal at 45 E. University in Champaign, or at MTD Headquarters at 1101 E. University in Urbana.
Where Can I Buy An Annual Bus Pass?
An Annual bus pass may be purchased at Illinois Terminal at 45 E. University in downtown Champaign for only $60. A photograph is required for the bus pass, and photographs are taken at Illinois Terminal at no charge.
If I Ride More Than One Bus, Do I Have To Pay Each Time?
No, transfers are free. Transfers are issued only at the time a valid fare is paid. You must ask your driver for a transfer when you first board. Transfers are issued for connections with other routes. Transfers are valid only at points where routes intersect. Transfers are valid on the first connecting route or service time. Transfers are not valid for a round trip.
How Much Is a Ride for a High/Middle School Student?
The one-way cash fare for high school and younger riders is $1.00. The fare may also be paid with one token which may be purchased by high school and younger students. The cost for six (6) tokens is only $3.00. Tokens are accepted at all times. Only youths in high school and younger are eligible to use school tokens. Individuals using school tokens may be required to prove eligibility.
Do Children Have to Pay to Ride?
Children 46 inches or less in height ride FREE when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger. A yellow line measuring 46 inches to the top is at the front door of all MTD vehicles. Children taller than 46 inches must pay a fare.
Do You Have Discount Rates?
The MTD offers a number of great options for riders to receive a discount off the $1.00 base fare. Riders may purchase an annual pass for only $60, and all-day passes (Saturday or Sunday only) for $2. High school and younger students may purchase six student tokens for $3.
How Much Do Student Tokens Cost?
One-way fares may be paid with one student token (high school or younger students only). High school and younger tokens are $3.00 for six (6). Tokens may be purchased from any MTD operator prior to 7:00 PM (but they can make change only for up to $5.00). Tokens may also be purchased at Illinois Terminal or MTD Administration and Operations Offices during normal business hours.
How Much Does an Annual Pass Cost?
A non-transferable Annual Pass is good for unlimited riding for any twelve-month period. The pass begins on the first day of any given month. Purchase an annual pass with your photograph at Illinois Terminal. The cost per year is only $60.
How Much Do All Day Passes Cost?
All day passes are valid only on Saturday OR Sunday. You may ride all day Saturday or Sunday for only $2.00 (per day). Saturday and Sunday passes can be purchased from any bus operator.
I am a Sr. Citizen; How Much Does it Cost to Ride?
Individuals sixty-five (65) years of age and older ride MTD buses at no charge with a DASH Pass. Senior citizens who do not wish to obtain a DASH pass may ride for $0.50. Persons sixty-five (65) years of age and older may obtain a DASH Pass by providing proof of age at Illinois Terminal. DASH Passes will be issued directly to all eligible seniors upon verification of age. The DASH Pass is valid for up to three years, and must be renewed upon expiration. The DASH Pass does require a photo, and all DASH Pass holders must have their picture taken at Illinois Terminal. There is no charge for photographs.
I Have a Physical Disability; How Much Does it Cost to Ride?
Medicare Card holders and persons having significant difficulty boarding or alighting from an MTD vehicle may qualify for a DASH pass as a rider with disability. Riders with a disability ride MTD buses at no charge with a DASH pass. Applications for DASH passes must be submitted at Illinois Terminal, and must include a copy of a Medicare Card or certification from an MTD authorized agency. A photograph will be taken at that time. Please contact ADA Customer Service at 217.384.8188 for the list of authorized agencies. DASH passes will be mailed to the applicant upon approval. Medicare Card holders who do not wish to obtain a DASH pass may ride fixed-route buses for $0.50 (Fifty Cents).
I Am a College Student; How Much Does It Cost to Ride?
Parkland College students pay the regular fare of $1.00 per one-way trip. Discounts are available for the purchase an Annual Pass ($60).
All eligible University of Illinois students, faculty, and staff have unlimited access to all routes and services at all times. Arrangements with the University make it unnecessary for these riders to pay a fare. When boarding at a campus i-Stop, simply board the route identified as an i-Stop route (no fare required). When riding community services, all eligible students, faculty, and staff are required to present their valid University-issued identification card. Employees of allied organizations eligible to rent parking on campus who do not have an I-Card may be eligible for unlimited access. Qualified individuals can obtain an unlimited access card at Illinois Terminal. Please call 217.384.8188 with any questions.
Do Children Have to Pay to Ride the Bus?
Children 46 inches or less in height ride MTD buses FREE when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger. There is a yellow line measuring 46 inches to the top at the front door of all MTD vehicles. Children taller than 46 inches must pay a fare.
May I Bring a Baby Stroller on the Bus?
Yes, you may bring a baby stroller onto MTD buses. You are encouraged to hold your child in your arms whenever possible.
Where Can I Get a Schedule?
Schedules are available on all MTD buses. If this supply is exhausted, you may pick up a schedule at any MTD facility including Illinois Terminal and MTD Administration and Operations offices. Contact us by phone at 217.384.8188, by email at mtdweb@cumtd.com, or write to us at 1101 E. University Avenue, Urbana, IL 61820 and we’ll be happy to mail you a schedule.
How Do I Plan a Trip?
Obtain an MTD schedule and familiarize yourself with the bus routing and timetables. Identify the times to board and locations at which to transfer to get to your destination. You can also use the MTD’s electronic trip planner on this website. Or, give us a call at 217.384.8188 and we’ll help you with your trip planning.
How Do I Recognize My Bus?
Every fixed-route bus has an electronic destination sign above its front window. This sign will tell you the route number and name and will circulate other information to help you determine the direction of travel or major destinations. Bus route identification signs are also found near the front door and at the rear of the bus.
Where Do I Board the Bus?
MTD vehicles board and alight passengers at any safe street corner along a route, except on the University of Illinois campus and a few other areas in the community where heavy ridership requires designated stop locations. Designated stop locations are shown on the route maps in the schedule book and on this website.
Wait for vehicles at street corners, not in the middle of the block, unless a bus stop sign is posted. This is an important safety factor as other traffic on the street must wait while the vehicle is boarding passengers. Arrive at the stop a few minutes ahead of the time the vehicle is due to arrive. The MTD operators make every effort to operate on schedule but traffic and other factors sometimes affect schedules.
How Do I Get the Bus to Stop for Me?
Look at the destination sign above the window on the front of the bus to identify its destination. Hold your arm high in the air and wave to notify the operator of the approaching bus that you would like to board.
What Do I Do When I Get On?
Once the bus has come to a complete stop and the door opens, step on. The operator will kneel (lower) the bus or extend the ramp upon request if you need these devices to board the bus. Be sure to let the operators know if you would like them to kneel the bus.
Please have the exact fare (coins preferred) or pass ready when boarding. Operators make change up to $5.00 prior to 7:00 PM, but having the exact fare ready will speed boarding and help the MTD deliver on-time service to other passengers.
If you need to transfer to another route to complete your trip, request a free transfer from the operator when paying your fare.
Where Should I Sit?
After paying your fare, please sit in the first available seat. If no seats are available, please stand in the area by the rear door and secure yourself. Stand at the front only if the bus is completely full, and always stand behind the white line. Please note that the seats at the front of the bus should be yielded to elderly or disabled passengers upon request.
How Do I Transfer to Another Route?
In order to facilitate your transfer to another route, please inform the operator, immediately upon boarding, of the route you are transferring to and the location the transfer is to be made. The operator will give you a paper transfer. This will also provide the operator enough time to contact your connecting bus and inform the operator of the transfer. Once the operator from the connecting bus has been contacted, they are required to wait up to two (2) minutes past the scheduled departure time at the transfer location. Every effort will be made to assist passengers in completing transfers without significantly delaying service to others. Present the operator of the bus to which you are transferring with the paper transfer when boarding. Transfers must be used on the first available bus. Transfers are always free.
How Do I Ask the Bus to Stop to Get Off?
Please give the operator some advance notice when needing to leave the bus. Yellow pull cords are located along the windows throughout the bus. Pull the cord to ring the stop request bell about one-half block before the stop. Once a stop request is received, the operator will stop the bus at the next safe intersection.
Where Should I Exit the Bus?
Please use the rear door whenever possible to exit the bus when passengers are waiting to board at the front. The rear door is activated by touching the silver handles. Use the front door if you need the operator to kneel the bus or extend the ramp. The operator will do so upon request. After exiting the bus, wait for the bus to pull away before you cross the street so that you can clearly see traffic from both directions. TO ENSURE YOUR SAFETY, NEVER CROSS IN FRONT OF OR BEHIND THE BUS.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Bus?
No, pets are not allowed on MTD buses. Service animals assisting persons with disabilities are allowed.
What Are the Rules of Conduct?
To ensure that all customers have a safe and enjoyable ride, the following rules are enforced on all MTD properties, including vehicles, shelters, Illinois Terminal , and MTD offices. All MTD vehicles are equipped with audio/video recorders. Do not litter; no smoking, eating, or drinking; riders with disabilities and senior riders have seating priority--be courteous and, when needed, offer your seat to these riders; do not utilize/play any electronic devices or musical instruments in a manner which may be distracting and/or offensive to others; do not use loud or explicit language; wear appropriate attire; no unauthorized solicitations; no hazardous materials allowed.
How Do I Offer a Compliment, Suggestion, or Complaint?
Feedback from our customers is very important to the MTD. Contact us by telephone at 217.384.8188, by email at mtdweb@cumtd.com, or by mail at 1101 E. University Avenue; Urbana, IL 61820 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
I Think I Lost an Item on a Bus. How Do I Get It Back?
The MTD maintains a Lost and Found service at Illinois Terminal for the convenience of its patrons. This service is available during regular MTD Customer Service Center hours. All items are kept two weeks, and claimed items must be picked up within that two week period. Items must be identified and claimed only at Illinois Terminal. The MTD is not responsible for lost items left on buses, in shelters, on any MTD property, or not claimed in the two week period. Contact Illinois Terminal’s Customer Service Center at 217.384.3577 for information.
How Do I Read a Schedule?
Schedules are filled with information designed to make your trip as easy as possible. Following are explanations of the various components of a schedule. Route schedules are also known as timetables.
Schedules - How Do I Determine the Direction of Travel?
At the top of each route’s timetable is an entry showing the direction of travel for the columns of time listed in the table. Directions of travel include northbound, southbound, eastbound, and westbound.
Schedules - How Do I Determine the Major Stops?
To help you determine the path of travel on the route’s map, each schedule lists major stops along the route. The major stops are found at the top of the timetable in the slanted columns beneath the direction of travel.
Schedules - What is the Major Stop Identifier Found Map?
Each of the major stops found along the top of the timetable are assigned a letter as an identifier. This identifying number corresponds to the stop’s location on the route map.
Schedules - What are the Stop ID’s?
Each major stop and all minor stops in the MTD system are assigned a unique stop identifier code. These identifiers always begin with the letters ‘mtd’ and are followed by four numbers (e.g. mtd7411). These identifiers are used to communicate with the MTD’s STOPwatch.SMS text messaging, STOPwatch.WEB, and STOPwatch.MOBI for you to receive real-time departure information for the next bus serving your stop.
Schedules - What is a Timepoint?
The times (timepoints) in the schedule show at what time your bus stops at various locations along the route. Read across the rows of the schedule to see the times the bus travels to different major stops, and read up and down the columns to see the times the bus stops at one specific location.
Schedules – What are Footnotes?
While routes maintain a relatively set schedule throughout the day, on occasional trips there are special circumstances where the bus travels to a different destination or operates at slightly irregular times. If this is true, there will be footnotes on the schedule beneath the timetable explaining bus operations. The footnotes correspond to certain trips and are designated on the timetable with a special character or letter before or after the timepoint. Be certain to read the footnote corresponding to the letter or symbol before or after the time at your stop. If you need help reading the schedule book or need route or schedule information in a hurry, call us!
What Services Does the MTD Offer?
The MTD has several mobility services including fixed-route buses, express buses, direct van service, ADA Paratransit service, and a half-fare cab program. Please see below for descriptions of each.
Services - Fixed Route
Fixed routes are those that operate on a set timetable serving specific destinations throughout Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy, and the University of Illinois Campus. These routes are served by 30-foot, 40-foot, and 60-foot buses depending on ridership levels. All MTD regular fixed-route buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and can be lowered to aid boarding.
Services - Express Service
Express service is a variation of the fixed-route service which typically operates on special routing ONLY during peak hours.
Services - Direct Service
This is a van service that operates within designated areas not served by fixed routes. It provides a connection from outlying areas to fixed-route service. Check the schedule book or the website for detailed information about 331 Northeast Direct, 332 Southeast Direct, 333 Southwest Direct, 334 West Direct, and 335 SafeRides services.
Services - ADA Paratransit Service
This curb-to-curb transportation service is available to persons with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route services. ADA Paratransit service is by reservation only, and all reservations must be made at least one day prior to service. All eligible riders must submit an application and be registered prior to using the service. Please contact ADA Customer Service at 217.384.8188 for application information.
Services - Half-Fare Cab Program
A supplement to fixed-route service for DASH pass holders, the Half-Fare Cab Program offers discounted cab rides taken within the MTD boundaries. Please contact ADA Customer Service at 217.384.8188 for the list of participating cab companies and complete program guidelines.
Do You Rent/Charter Buses To Organizations?
No. Federal regulations prohibit the MTD and other public transportation operators from providing services which may be interpreted as a Charter if there are other bus services ‘willing and able’ to do so. Please visit your local Yellow Pages or online search engines to identify service providers.
I Use A Wheelchair. Can I Ride The Bus?
All MTD regular fixed routes are served by buses equipped with wheelchair ramps and can be lowered to aid boarding. A maximum of two wheelchairs can be accommodated on each bus. The operator will deploy the ramp if you need this assistance to board. If the wheelchair securement areas are full, please wait for the next available bus.
Can I Ride if I Have Difficulty Climbing Stairs?
All MTD regular fixed routes are served by buses which can be lowered to aid boarding. The operator will kneel (lower) the bus upon request if you need this assistance to board. Please let the operator know that you would like the bus to kneel.
How Do I Qualify to use ADA Paratransit Service?
ADA Paratransit service is curb-to-curb transportation service available to qualified persons with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route services. The one-way fare is $2.00. ADA Paratransit service is by reservation only, and all reservations must be made at least one day prior to service. All eligible riders must submit an application and be registered prior to using the service. Please contact ADA Customer Service at 217.384.8188 for application information.
What Are The Little Vans With The MTD Logo That I See?
These vans are either ADA Paratransit vehicles or MTD Supervisor vehicles. See above for an explanation of ADA Paratransit service. The MTD has on-street supervision throughout the service day. These supervisors oversee operations, assist with problems that may arise, and intervene to help passengers.
How Do I Find Out What Time The Bus Comes To My Stop?
Some stops have an electronic messaging system, called STOPwatch, which show when buses are scheduled to depart that particular stop. Otherwise, check your schedule in the Routes and Schedules book or on this website, or give us a call at 217.384.8188! We’ll be happy to help you. With STOPwatch system components, you can learn precise information about your stop’s next bus departure times, or receive messages about detours and emergencies.
Does MTD Service Operate On Holidays?
The MTD operates on all minor holidays, but does not operate on major holidays which are the following: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, July Fourth (Independence Day), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. No evening service is provided on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve.
Do Buses Run Late?
While the MTD makes every effort to keep its buses operating at the scheduled times, occasionally buses run late. The MTD attempts to add buses to serve a particular route when it is known that there are problems. However, buses may run a bit late if they encounter unexpected problems on the road, when all service vehicles are occupied, or if buses must make detours due to road construction or severe weather. Check this website or call 217.384.8188 for reroute information. The MTD does reserve the right to institute minor route and schedule changes. You may also subscribe to myRIDE to receive the most up-to-date re-route and detour information via email or text message.
Detours And Route Updates
Buses sometimes make detours that are not shown on schedules in this book, such as when there is road construction or severe weather. Check this website regularly or call 217.384.8188 for reroute information. The MTD does reserve the right to institute minor route and schedule changes. Subscribe to myRIDE to receive re-route and detour information via email or text message.
What Hours Do The Buses Operate?
Frequency and hours of service vary from route to route. Buses operate most frequently during the morning and evening hours when travelers are going to work or school. Many routes operate from the very early morning to very late at night, and a few operate 24 hours a day during the week. Check the schedule for the particular route of interest.
If It Snows, What Changes Can I Expect To The Bus Service?
Buses sometimes make detours when severe weather creates travel problems. Visit this website or call 217.384.8188 for reroute information. Subscribe to myRIDE to receive real-time re-route or detour information via email or text message.
Where Does MTD Service Go?
MTD fixed-route, express, direct services, and ADA Paratransit Service cover the vast majority of the Mass Transit District’s service area. This includes most of Champaign and Urbana, and parts of Savoy. As new geographical areas are developed and residential and commercial areas added, the MTD makes efforts to join the cities in annexing these areas so that service can be provided for those who need or want to use public transportation. View the District’s boundaries under 'About Us' on this website.
What Is STOPwatch?
The MTD has 13 STOPwatch locations in Champaign-Urbana with plans to install more. In real time, the STOPwatch system tells you how many minutes it will be before your bus departs. This information is based on the actual location of the vehicle, as tracked by a GPS system, and can be accessed in any number of ways. This means on the rare occasion that a bus is running behind schedule, you will know its precise departure time. Current locations of STOPwatch departure signs are: Country Fair Southeast (Taco Bell), Illinois Terminal (Platform A & Platform B separate), Parkland College, Green Street at Illini Union, Green Street at Illini Union (Engineering Side), University of Illinois Library North (Armory Street), University of Illinois Library South (Gregory Street), College Court, MTD Transit Plaza Eastside and Westside on Wright Street on the University of Illinois campus, Lincoln Square Courthouse, Lincoln Square Parking Garage, and Carle Hospital.
Do STOPwatch Services Cost Anything?
The MTD charges no fees, but your mobile phone or wireless provider standard charges apply for text messaging using STOPwatch.SMS. Please contact your mobile phone provider to verify your account packages.
What Is STOPwatch.PLUS@theStop?
This is the MTD’s premiere on-route display sign. STOPwatch.PLUS@theStop signs include all of the information available on our STOPwatch signs, but include additional features such as current weather conditions. Currently, these signs are available at Illinois Terminal, Market Place Mall, and LAR Lincoln Avenue, and 88 West Apartments with more planned. Advertising space is available on these signs as well.
What Is STOPwatch.WEB?
STOPwatch.WEB allows you to access real-time bus information from your favorite web browser. Check your computer before you leave for work or class and know instantly how soon your bus will be departing. Paired with MyRIDE, this feature allows you to save your frequently used stops to see your real-time bus departure times.
What Is STOPwatch.JOURNEY?
STOPwatch.JOURNEY helps you plan your trips within the MTD service area. Choose your ‘to’ and ‘from’ addresses, whether they are your own street address, business, or landmark. STOPwatch.JOURNEY will tell you which route(s) to take, transfers, and walking directions.
What Is STOPwatch.SMS?
Have text messaging available on your mobile phone? Get real-time data for every bus stop in the MTD service area right on your phone! It’s simple: in the “TO” field, enter the number 35890. Create the text message, using the stop ID as the body (e.g. mtd6456); send the text message; and after a few seconds, read your incoming text message. It will contain a list of the routes serving that stop with their scheduled times of departure. Please note that your mobile phone provider’s text messaging fees will apply.
What Is STOPwatch.MOBI?
STOPwatch.MOBI gives you the freedom to check bus departure times with any web-enabled mobile device. Whether you have a mobile phone or a PDA, wireless access gives you the freedom to use what is convenient for you. STOPwatch.MOBI provides real-time route information and reroute alerts formatted to work with your device. To use it, open your PDA or mobile phone's web browser and navigate to http://stopwatch.cumtd.mobi. Begin searching for your route by either using the street intersection or STOPwatch.SMS stop identifier (see above) and select your stop from the list. View the departure times for bus routes serving your stop.
What Is STOPwatch.WIDGET?
Keep a widget open at all times on your desktop. Type in the code for your stop, (just like STOPwatch.SMS, see above) and receive real-time bus information for any MTD stop throughout the day. This widget requires Yahoo! Widget Engine, a free program from Yahoo!. The widget will update every 30 seconds to provide the most up-to-date information possible for a particular stop. STOPwatch.WIDGET also approximates real-time route information 30 minutes into the future. As you watch the widget, departure times will count down as the bus travels closer to the stop. The time that is listed to the right of the route is how many minutes until departure at that exact time the widget refreshed itself.
Can I Bring My Bike on the Bus?
Not exactly. It’s more like you can bring your bike with the bus. All MTD fixed-route buses are equipped with bike racks on the front of the bus which can hold two bikes. You must be at least 13 years old to use the racks, unless accompanied by an adult. Folding bikes folded prior to boarding are allowed onboard MTD vehicles; the folding bicycle must not block the aisle or doors. The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District is not responsible for personal injury, property damages, or property loss arising from use of this equipment. Use at your own risk.
Is There a Fee for Bringing My Bike on My Trip?
Nope, bikes ride FREE when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger, and no special permit is required.
What Do I Do if the Bike Rack is Full?
You will have to wait for the next available bus. Bikes are not allowed onboard.
How Do I Load My Bicycle?
Before the bus arrives, remove anything from your bike that may fall off during the trip. For your safety, never step to the street side of the bus. Load your bike quickly to ensure that fellow passengers reach their destinations on time. If the rack is full, wait for the next bus. Do not attempt to bring your bike inside the bus. The operator cannot leave the bus to assist you.
#1 Lower - Lower the rack with one hand while holding your bike with the other hand. Grasp the handle, squeeze it, and pull forward until completely lowered. #2 Lift - After lowering the rack, lift your bike into the wheel well. If only one bike is being loaded, put it in the position nearest the bus, handlebars towward the curb. #3 Swing arm up and over fron tire; a spring pulls the arm down onto the tire and holds bike securely. #4 Board the bus and sit as close to the front as possible, keeping your bike in view.
How Do I Unload My Bicycle?
#1 Exit - Exit the front door and let the driver know you will be removing your bike from the rack.
#2 Unlock - Raise the support arm off the tire.
#3 Unload - Lift your bike out of the rack.
#4 Lift - Return the rack to its upright position if there are no other bikes loaded or people waiting to load their bikes at the stop.
#5 Ride - Finally, move quickly away from the bus to the curb and let the operator know it is safe to leave.
Why Is There A Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District?
The privately-owned City Lines bus company in Champaign-Urbana operated until the early 1970s. As was common throughout the country at that time, falling ridership’s fares could no longer finance the services and, one after another, private companies went out of business. When nearby community systems failed in the early 1970s, Champaign-Urbana’s local government took over public transportation service. Local taxes and fares had to cover expenses and in 1971 residents passed a referendum approving local tax levies and the formation of the District. The Downstate Public Transit Act passed by the Illinois General Assembly in 1974 assured State funding assistance to transit systems in Illinois outside the city of Chicago who qualify for this funding by collecting local taxes.
When Did CUMTD Begin Serving Our Cities?
The first Board of Trustees of the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District was appointed Tuesday, December 15, 1970. On the five-member Board were James Benefiel, Professor Lachlan Blair, Warren Burgard, Helen Smith, and Karl Tauber (Chairman). The Board’s first meeting was held December 18, 1970, and operations began August 2, 1971. The fare was 30¢ and transfers were (and still are) free. The District leased buses and property at 501 N. Fifth Street from City Lines. It was announced May 13, 1971 that a federal grant of $260,608 was approved and a promise of an additional $86,869 for the purchase of fifteen new buses. Ten used buses were purchased from Peoria.
Where Does The MTD Operate?
The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District serves the communities of Champaign, Urbana, and portions of Savoy, Illinois with a combined population of nearly 125,000. The MTD also serves the University of Illinois campus. Public transportation services provided by the MTD generally operate only within the boundaries of the MTD. The MTD’s operational standards require that geographic areas be annexed into the District and property taxes collected before service can be provided.
Who Can Ride Services Provided by the MTD?
Any member of the public may ride any fixed-route bus, express bus service, or direct service provided by the MTD. Only persons meeting certain eligibility criteria may ride the MTD’s ADA Paratransit services or take advantage of the Half-Fare Cab Program.
How Does the MTD Fund Its Operations?
The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District’s operating and capital expenses are paid with a variety of revenue and funding sources. These sources include fares paid by the MTD’s riders; the District’s share of property taxes paid by residents of annexed areas including Champaign, Urbana, and portions of Savoy; Local, State and Federal funding assistance; and service contracts with various entities. In April, 1989, University of Illinois students passed a referendum of approving a one-year trial of the MTD and today U of I students choose to pay for use of the MTD through student fees; students vote every three years to determine if they would like to continue to have access to services by paying student fees. The MTD seeks available Federal grant funding for capital expenses which are supplemented by Local and State matching funds.
What Services Does the MTD Offer?
The MTD offers fixed-route bus, express bus, and direct (demand response) van services to any member of the public who wants or needs to use these services. The MTD also provides ADA Paratransit Services and a Half-Fare Cab Program for those who qualify (senior citizens and riders with disabilities).
How Many Vehicles Does the MTD Operate?
The MTD operates over 100 service vehicles. The majority are fixed-route buses 40 feet in length; included in the bus fleet are 60-foot articulated buses with 64 passenger seats and 30-foot buses. The MTD also operates several passenger vans for its ADA and direct services.
How Many Rides Does the MTD Provide Every Year?
The MTD provides about 10,000,000 rides per year to residents of our communities, including University of Illinois students, faculty, and staff.
Where are MTD Facilities?
The MTD’s Administration and Operations offices are at 1101 E. University in Urbana, Customer Service is at Illinois Terminal at 45 E. University in Champaign, the Maintenance Facility and Bus Garages are at 803 E. University in Urbana. The MTD also owns and manages the Transit Plaza on Wright Street on the University of Illinois Campus, and downtown Urbana transfer facilities.
What is the Board of Trustees?
The MTD’s Board of Trustees governs District activities. There are seven members on the Board of Trustees; the University of Illinois is also represented by an administrator and a student as non-voting Board members. MTD Board members are appointed by elected officials on the Champaign County Board, and Board members serve a maximum of two five-year terms.
Who Oversees Operations of the MTD?
Along with the oversight of the MTD Board of Trustees, the Federal Transit Administration enforces regulations for all public transportation systems in the United States. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has industry guidelines which are followed by the MTD. These guidelines ensure transit agencies operate responsibly, especially in regard to safety procedures. The MTD’s financial and grant-management operations are reviewed annually by independent auditors. MTD’s internal procedures ensure that its employees are drug-free and comply with its stringent employment requirements.
Who is Responsible for Regional Transportation Planning?
The Champaign County Regional Planning Commission and the Champaign Urbana Urbanized Area Transportation Study serve as this region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). A MPO is the designated local decision making body responsible for carrying out the metropolitan transportation planning process. Champaign County’s MPO coordinates the use of Federal transportation funds, promotes interagency cooperation, and ensures consistency among planning efforts. CUUATS membership includes representatives from Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy, as well as the University of Illinois, Champaign County, Illinois Department of Transportation, and the MTD. CCRPC and CUUATS published the Long Range Transportation Plan 2025 (LRTP 2025) in Dec. 2004. This document is available at www.ccrpc.org/planning/transportation/lrtp/lrtp.php.
Is the MTD Committed to Good Public Transportation Services?
We certainly are. Why? Because public transportation services offer community members the freedom to go where they want and need to go. Users, especially those who have few or no alternatives, are able to accomplish the things they want and need. This allows them to lead rich and full lives. Communities benefit as a whole when all citizens are able to achieve their personal goals and realize their opportunities. The MTD is committed to operating its services efficiently and effectively in order to maintain accessibility and provide mobility for all, while maintaining reasonable fares for these services. As development and growth in the core and fringe areas of our communities continue, the MTD strives to fulfill its mission by modifying service as needed and adding geographical areas to its service district. Public transportation is one of the few Federal, State, and local programs that benefits the young and old; rich and poor; the student and wage earner.
Do MTD Employees Live in Our Communities?
While most employees are not required to do so, most choose to live and work in the communities we serve. Members of the MTD Board of Trustees, and many MTD senior managers, administrative staff, bus operators, maintenance staff, and customer service personnel live in Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy. We take advantage of all that our communities have to offer, walk or bike to work, and contribute to the support of public services. We live, work, play, attend church, and shop here, and our children attend area schools. Volunteerism is high and involvement in community organizations is important to many employees.
How Is the MTD’s Ridership Data Collected and Reported?
The MTD counts riders as they board our buses and other services vehicles. The ridership data collected is very important, so the MTD takes special care to accurately record the number of riders. Riders are counted as they pass through the door by the MTD’s Automatic Passenger Counters (APCs) installed on all buses. The APCs count passengers using an Infrared Motion Analyzer (IRMA) as they board. Passive and active components of this system allow detection of the number of people moving through the door as well as their direction of movement. The system discriminates between those boarding and alighting the vehicle, and only counts people when the doors are open. The counts are stored in an on-board computer and are then uploaded to a WLAN and evaluated with the MTD’s MOBILEstatistics system.
Why Collect This Data?The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requires that transit authorities receiving FTA funding submit performance data to its National Transit Database (NTD). Recipients of FTA Urbanized Area Formula Program (§5307) and Nonurbanized Area Formula Program (§5311) funding are required by statute to submit data to the NTD. Over 650 transit agencies and authorities file annual reports to the FTA, and each year NTD data are used to apportion over $4 billion of FTA funds to transit agencies. The NTD is the system through which FTA collects uniform data needed by the Secretary of Transportation to administer department programs. Anyone can view the NTD data on their website at www.ntdprogram.gov. The FTA conducts Triennial Reviews to ensure grantee performance and adherence to current FTA requirements and policies. One of the 23 areas reviewed is the gathering and reporting of ridership data to ensure data validity.
While compliance with FTA reporting requirements is obviously important, the ridership data is equally important for MTD internal analyses. The data helps the MTD make critical decisions about where and when to provide service, and is useful when evaluating route effectiveness. Great care is taken by the MTD to ensure that riders are always accurately counted. Only correct figures make it possible to make informed service decisions.
What is an i-Stop?
i-Stops are MTD stops located on and near the University of Illinois campus where it is unnecessary to pay a fare or show identification for certain routes: Gold, Illini, Silver, Teal, and Yellow routes (only).
Gold: No ID is required from E-14 to Goodwin and Springfield.
Illini: No ID is required at any stop located south of University Avenue.
Silver: No ID is required from VetMed to Goodwin and Springfield.
Teal: No ID is required northbound at any stop from FAR-PAR to Stoughton and Wright. No ID is required southbound at any stop from White and Wright to FAR-PAR.
Yellow: No ID is required northbound at any stop from Research Park to Stoughton and White. No ID is required southbound at any stop from White and Wright to Research Park.
Please remember that on your return trip it may be necessary to pay a fare or show ID if you board these routes outside the boundaries described above. Be sure to always have cash fare or proper identification for your return trip.