RTC RAPID to Start Service Along Virginia Street

RTC RAPID is a faster, limited-stop bus service running along Virginia Street between the downtown Reno RTC CITICENTER terminal and the Meadowood Mall Transfer Station at 5000 Meadowood Mall Circle. These buses will make only seven stops in each direction and service each station every 10 to 12 minutes during peak operating times. New 60-foot articulated diesel-electric hybrid buses will arrive in 2010 for use on the route. Until then, rebranded existing vehicles will be used. Look for a distinctive green, white, and blue color scheme on buses designated for RTC RAPID service. Another new service called RTC RAPID CONNECT will serve all stops on the same route, including those designated for RTC RAPID. The new service starts at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 12.

Designed to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, RTC RAPID will be funded by federal bucks for its first three years. Once all the pieces are in place, the new service will move riders up and down Virginia Street significantly faster than regular transit buses. For more information, call (775) 348-RIDE.

RTC Reduced Fares: Starting October 11, the same reduced fare will apply to seniors, youth (ages 6 to 18) and the disabled. The free picture ID cards from RTC are available at the RTC CITICENTER and RTC CENTENNIAL PLAZA transit centers and at RTC's 600 Sutro Street and 2050 Villanova Drive offices in Reno. Other forms of proof of age are also acceptable, such as a driver's license or Medicare card. Youth can use their student picture ID cards. Also beginning October 11, the senior age requirement will go to 65, but everyone who turns 60 before January 1, 2010 will be grandfathered in at the reduced senior fare.

Source: RTC press release and website.

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