MTS ridership continues its climb back to pre-pandemic level
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Ridership on the Metropolitan Transit System reached 75.7 million in fiscal 2024 — or 10% above 2023 levels.
Why it matters: Ridership on the agency's bus and trolley system cratered in 2020 but has slowly recovered to now hover around 85% of its pre-pandemic level.
By the numbers: All three trolley lines and the agency's overall bus service posted ridership increases in fiscal 2024, which ended in June.
- Ridership grew 11.5% on the Blue Line, 8.8% on the Green Line, 6% on the Orange Line and 10.8% overall.
What they're saying: CEO Sharon Cooney attributed the MTS rebound to fewer people working from home and affordability.
- "With inflation, rising costs of housing and strained pocketbooks, residents are looking for any way they can to save money," she said in a release. "Taking transit is a great way to do that."
Yes, but: MTS is facing a significant structural budget deficit, based on the loss of ridership during and after the pandemic. Fare revenue accounts for 25% of the agency's budget.