If you are new to Phoenix or have never used the bus system before, you'll want to check out the Valley Metro website. This site guides you through your transit options and updates schedule changes or delays you may encounter on your trip. Valley Metro operates a light rail system, buses, and special Monday through Friday bus lines that take commuters to and from downtown. Valley Metro also provides ride share resources.
As of October 2010, a ride on the Phoenix bus or light rail costs $1.75. On the RAPID commuter bus, the fare is $2.75. You can buy an all-day pass for $3.75 ($5.75 if you buy it on the bus), a week pass for $17.50, or a month pass for $55. These passes allow you unlimited trips on the bus and light rail within the designated time span. Three-day passes run $10.50. Discounted rates apply to youth, seniors and people with disabilities. Purchase tickets and passes on buses, online, or at fare vending machines and outlets throughout the Phoenix area.
Buses serve the city of Phoenix as well as the surrounding Maricopa County. Phoenix suburbs in which Valley Metro runs bus routes include Mesa, Tempe and Glendale. Most bus routes are named for the street they travel on. For instance, route 15 runs along 15th Avenue. Route 0 runs on Central Avenue, which divides the city's east and west sides.
