Commute changes coming: Valley Metro seeks public input on 86 proposed bus service updates

Valley Metro is proposing 86 changes across 59 bus routes to offer more frequent service where it is most needed.

Michael Eshleman, Valley Metro’s deputy chief of service planning, said the goal is to build a network that reflects how people travel around the Phoenix area.

“We think that a system that responds to what people want and what people need will generate more ridership. People will just use it more because it works better,” Eshleman told KTAR News 92.3 FM Tuesday.

Valley Metro’s regional bus network has 97 routes and provides nearly 30 million passenger trips each year. The agency developed the proposals using community feedback, ridership data and travel patterns across Maricopa County to meet the needs of a growing population.

What would Valley Metro change about bus routes in the Phoenix area?

The proposal would nearly double the number of weekday routes with buses arriving every 15 minutes or less. Several routes would also offer more frequent weekend trips, new Sunday service or later evening service.

“We heard in particular from the community that the weekend network just isn’t working for them,” Eshleman said.

Some routes would be extended, combined or adjusted to connect riders with more destinations. Others could have service reduced or eliminated because of low ridership. Valley Metro says it will identify alternative service options wherever possible.

How can riders share feedback?

The proposed changes are not final. Riders and community members can review the plans and explain how the changes would affect their trips online through Nov. 30.

Community outreach events will also give riders a chance to ask questions and share feedback, which Valley Metro will use to refine the plan. Initial outreach opportunities include:

• Thursday, Oct. 8, 4:30-6 p.m.: Virtual office hours
• Tuesday, Oct. 13, 4:30-6 p.m.: Desert Sky Transit Center
• Tuesday, Oct. 13, 5-6:30 p.m.: Virtual office hours
• Tuesday, Oct. 27, 4-6 p.m.: Sycamore/Main Street Transit Center
• Wednesday, Oct. 28, noon-1:30 p.m.: Virtual office hours
• Thursday, Nov. 5, 7:30-9:30 a.m.: Thelda Williams Transit Center
• Saturday, Nov. 7, 10-11:30 a.m.: Virtual office hours
• Tuesday, Nov. 10, 4-6 p.m.: Tempe Transit Center
• Tuesday, Nov. 17, 5-6:30 p.m.: Virtual office hours

The full outreach schedule can be found here.

Final recommendations are expected in spring 2027. If approved, the changes would be introduced in phases beginning in fall 2027.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Kellen Shover contributed to this report.

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