BRT Powers Metro to Highest April Ridership Since 2015

For Immediate Release
May 12, 2025

Madison’s Metro Transit is celebrating a major milestone: more than 1.3 million rides were taken in April, marking the highest April ridership in nearly ten years and signaling a powerful comeback for public transit in the region. It was also the highest month of ridership since 2019. 

This surge is no accident. It follows Metro’s system transformation, including the launch of the City’s new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network, deployment of electric buses, and rollout of modern fare technology. 

Ridership on Metro’s Rapid Route A, launched in late September 2024, is up 56% this month compared to last year. Rapid Route B, which replaced a standard route, has more than doubled ridership, up 110% from the same period in 2024. 

“This is more than just a ridership milestone,” said Justin Stuehrenberg, Metro Transit General Manager. “It’s proof that smart investments and a commitment to service can rebuild public trust in transit. Metro has now not only surpassed pre-COVID ridership levels but reached heights we haven’t seen since 2015—something only a handful of systems across the country have done.” 

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway says Madison is a growing city and residents want transportation options that make sense to them.  

“The success of Metro Transit benefits the entire city and our region by helping to relieve streets of congestion, curb emissions, and by providing an affordable choice to students, commuters, visitors, and many more just wanting to quickly move around Madison,” said Mayor Rhodes-Conway. “I want to thank Metro staff for seeing through the big improvements to the system. That hard work is paying off.”  

For more information, contact Metro Transit’s customer service center at (608) 266-4466 or email mymetrobus@cityofmadison.com.