RTS to End Weekend, Late-Night On Demand Service as Budget Deficit Forces Cuts

Regional Transit Service (RTS) will eliminate weekend service and shorten weekday operating hours for its RTS On Demand program beginning September 7, citing the need to address a growing structural budget deficit while maintaining the long-term sustainability of the region's public transportation system.

Under the new schedule, RTS On Demand will no longer operate on Saturdays or Sundays. On weekdays, the shared-ride service will end at 8 p.m., eliminating late-evening trips that many riders rely on for work, medical appointments, shopping and other essential travel.

RTS officials emphasized that the changes affect only the RTS On Demand program. Traditional fixed-route bus service and RTS Access paratransit service for individuals with disabilities will continue to operate without changes.

"We know changes like this can affect your routine, and we don't make this decision lightly," RTS said in a statement announcing the service changes. The transit authority said the reductions are intended to help it "manage a structural budget deficit responsibly, while still providing safe, reliable, convenient, and sustainable transportation across our community."

RTS CEO Miguel Velázquez acknowledged the impact the decision will have on customers.

"While the decision to make these changes was difficult, it was also necessary to help us ensure the long-term financial health and sustainability of the transit system as a whole," Velázquez said. "We are committed to being transparent with our customers and employees and equally committed to protecting and preserving the transit system for many years to come."

The transit authority also stressed that the restructuring will not result in employee layoffs.

RTS On Demand was introduced in 2021 as part of the agency's Reimagine RTS initiative, replacing several low-ridership suburban bus routes with an app-based, shared-ride service operating within designated zones. The program has become an important transportation option for residents in areas where fixed-route bus service is limited.

In its announcement, RTS also reversed an earlier plan to increase fares. The agency said a fare increase that had been scheduled for September 2026 will not take effect. The cost of an RTS On Demand trip will remain $3 per ride, although fare capping will continue to apply only to RTS Connect fixed-route service and not to On Demand trips.

Transit advocates and riders have expressed concern that the reductions could disproportionately affect people who work evenings and weekends, particularly employees in retail, hospitality, healthcare and manufacturing. Many suburban job centers have limited public transportation options outside of RTS On Demand, leaving some riders with few affordable alternatives.

RTS is encouraging customers who typically travel during the affected hours to plan ahead and explore other transportation options. Riders with questions about the service changes can contact RTS customer service at (585) 288-1700 or visit the agency's website for updated schedules and trip-planning information.