Below is information on how to read a bus schedule, board the bus, and more. We also have a free Travel Training program for people who would like one-on-one assistance while learning how to use the bus system. Bus Buddies is another free program for people who need a little extra help riding the bus.
What is a Timepoint?
Timepoints are bus stops at major intersections. Timepoints are listed on schedules posted at our stops and on schedules printed from our website. Timepoints are usually spaced about 5 to 10 minutes apart. You can use these to estimate the time a bus will arrive at your bus stop. You can also look at the schedule for your route on our website (intercitytransit.com/plan-your-trip/routes) to see estimated stop times for all stops along that route.
Reading the Schedule
- Look at the map and determine:
- Which timepoint is nearest where you want to catch the bus.
- Where you want to go.
- The direction you will travel.
- Then, select the schedule that corresponds with the day of the week and the direction you will be traveling.
- When you have the right schedule, find the timepoint you'll be using as a guide. If you are boarding the bus at a stop that lies between two timepoints, use the earlier timepoint on the left to estimate when the bus will reach your stop.
- Look down the column to find the time you want to leave. Then, read across to the right to find the time the bus will arrive at your destination. A dash (—) is used when there is no service at a stop.
For help planning your trip, contact Customer Service at 360-786-1881 or email customerservice@intercitytransit.com. Tell us where you are leaving from, where you want to go and what time you want to be there, and we'll help plan your trip. Customer Service is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. You can also use our online trip planner.
Boarding the Bus
- As the bus approaches, signal the driver by waving.
- Let other passengers get off the bus before you board.
- Allow passengers using the wheelchair lift to board first. If you're using the lift, wait at least five feet from the door so the driver has room to lower the lift safely.
- Use caution when getting on or off the bus.
- Please allow elderly and riders with disabilities to sit in the front seats.
Zero-Fare
Intercity Transit's zero-fare demonstration project went into effect on January 1, 2020. During the demonstration project, Intercity Transit will not collect fares from passengers for some of its services.
Zero-Fare Services
- All Intercity Transit bus service
- Dial-A-Lift service
Learn more about the zero-fare demonstration project.
Getting off the Bus
Buses have an automated system that makes audio and visual announcements approaching stops. The visual announcements are near the ceiling of the bus in the front.
Once your stop is announced, signal the driver by pulling the yellow cord.
Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. Exit quickly through the rear door to allow room for boarding passengers. Once you exit, step away from the bus and wait until it leaves before crossing the street. Never cross in front of the bus.
Making a Transfer
If you need to transfer to another route to reach your final destination, locate the nearest transfer point. Transfer points serve several routes and are located at major shopping areas.
If your bus is running late and you are transferring to another bus, let your driver know. They will tell the connecting driver to wait for you for up to three minutes after the scheduled departure time if a connection is possible.