Spokane Transit Authority (STA) reached a significant milestone in 2024, with annual bus ridership topping over 10.16 million trips. This represents a 94% increase from 2021 when ridership dropped to just 5.24 million as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic, a trend experienced by transit agencies nationwide. STA’s bus ridership recovery also surpasses 2019 pre-pandemic ridership of 9.8 million rides, solidifying its position as the second busiest bus network in the state, according to the most recent data from the National Transit Database at the Federal Transit Administration.
“Surpassing the 10 million mark is a testament to the essential role that public transit plays in Spokane’s economy and daily life,” said Karl Otterstrom, STA Interim Co-Chief Executive Officer. “The multi-year increase in ridership is a major accomplishment and is attributable to STA’s dedication at adding service such as the City Line, the region’s first Bus Rapid Transit route, as we emerged from the Pandemic.”
STA has not only bounced back from the Pandemic’s impact but has also outpaced average bus ridership increases for transit agencies across Washington state. Annual bus ridership increased by 35.7% in 2023, more than twice the national average, and the fastest year-over-year increase in STA’s history. These increases are indicative of the region’s economic rebound and the vital role of public transit in Spokane County in connecting people to work, school, healthcare, and other essential services.
“STA was a leader in the state in ridership recovery, especially given the challenges we all faced during the Pandemic,” said STA Board Chair and Spokane Valley Mayor Pam Haley. “This achievement reflects the commitment of the team at STA to ensure Spokane’s transportation services were there when people needed it most.”
While the 2024 ridership milestone is significant, it is important to recognize the broader, ongoing impact of public transit. Despite a nationwide plunge in transit ridership during the Pandemic, STA maintained service levels to prioritize access for essential workers who relied on buses and paratransit to get to healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and other businesses critical to the community’s well-being. While many other agencies struggled to maintain service during nationwide labor shortages, STA expanded service in 2023 and in 2024, continuing to meet the needs of these vital workers. STA also started zero fare for youth in October of 2022, adding a new generation of riders.
Looking forward, STA remains committed to not only maintaining its ridership growth, but also expanding service and enhancing its fleet to meet the evolving needs of the Spokane region’s residents as outlined in the new Connect 2035 10-year strategic plan. As the region continues to grow, STA will play a central role in providing reliable, sustainable transportation options that support economic vitality and connecting everyone to opportunity.
