How To Ride the Bus

The following steps will help you plan your trip.

Determine the route and schedule

1. Look at the System Bus Route Map on the back of the schedule book.
2. Find the correct route schedule in your schedule book.
3. Determine your direction of travel.
4. Select the route schedule that matches your direction of travel.
5. Identify your departure and destination timepoints.
6. Look down the column of times from your departure point then across to identify your arrival time. (Many people find it easier to plan a trip by working backwards from the time they want to arrive at their final destination.)
7. Select the departing and arrival times that best suit your travel needs.

Arrive at the bus stop

1. Arrive at the bus stop five minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time of the timepoint shown before your bus stop location. All bus stops are clearly marked. Before boarding, identify the route name, number and direction of travel, to ensure it is going to your destination.   The bus route name and route number are on the front of the bus above the windshield and on the right hand side of the entrance to the bus. Use a “Hailing Kit” if you have visual disabilities. (see page 6 in Timetable)
2. Make sure the bus operator can see you standing at the stop by stepping forward or by signaling with a small flashlight. Sometimes, especially during the winter months, it is difficult for bus operators to see you unless you signal them.
3. If the bus is not yours, and you are alone at the stop, wave the bus by with a wide motion.

Board the bus

1. Board the bus at the front door (alert driver if you need the ramp deployed or need to have the coach lowered), and do one of the following:
   • Tell the bus operator if you wish to purchase a Day Pass so you can ride all routes on the same day for one price.
     • The seats in the front of the bus are reserved for senior citizens and disabled passengers, so the driver may ask you to move if those seats are needed. 
   • Place exact change or a bus token into the fare box. Operators do not have change.
   • Show the Operator your bus pass.

Exit the bus

1. When the bus is approximately two blocks away from your stop, signal the driver to stop by pulling the cord above the window once or by pushing the signal tab on the wall once.
2. Stay seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. 
3. Exit using the rear door (preferably) and stay clear of the bus after exiting the bus.
4. Bicyclers should notify the bus operator of the need to retrieve a bicycle and exit through the front door.
5. Never cross the street in front of a public bus. Wait for the bus to pull away so you have a clear view of the street.
6. Cross at the cross walk or street corner. If there is a light, wait for it to turn green or for the WALK signal.

Using the bike rack - click here for instructions.

Most importantly, especially for first time riders, plan ahead and get the information you will need before you begin your trip. There are several ways to get People Mover bus information:

• Ride Line: 343-6543
• Downtown Transit Center (6th & H)
• Ride Guide Booklets (Timetable)
• Website
• System Map in the ACS Yellow Pages
• Bus Stop Schedules in signs at Bus Stop zones
• Dimond Transit Center (Dimond & Old Seward)
• Bus Operators
• Bus Map

Have additional questions? Call our customer service staff or ask about free travel training.