UTA Streamlines Fare System, Launches New Midvalley Express Route

Utah Transit Authority prepares for Spring Change Day with FAREPAY card and free electric bus service.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:55am

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A bold, geometric illustration in shades of blue, green, and gold depicting an abstract cityscape with towering, angular architecture and a central focus on a stylized electric bus, capturing the grand scale and sleek, streamlined forms of modern public transportation.UTA's new electric Midvalley Express bus service aims to provide a direct, sustainable transit option for commuters across several cities.Salt Lake City Today

Utah Transit Authority is making several changes for its Spring Change Day, including making the UTA FAREPAY Card the primary fare payment method for reduced fare and frequent riders, launching a new Midvalley Express (Route 50X) bus route with free electric bus service, and adjusting other routes to support the new express service.

Why it matters

These changes are intended to simplify fare payment, improve service quality, and encourage more ridership on UTA's public transit system, especially for those who qualify for reduced fares. The new Midvalley Express route will provide a direct connection between several cities, while the free electric bus service aims to promote sustainable transportation.

The details

The UTA FAREPAY Card will now be the primary fare payment method for reduced fare users and frequent riders, replacing various paper tickets and cash. The reloadable card automatically caps daily and weekly fares to ensure riders pay the least amount possible. The new Midvalley Express route is a 7-mile electric bus service connecting Murray, Taylorsville, and West Valley, with stops at key destinations and the Taylorsville campus of Salt Lake Community College. This express route will be completely free to ride until April 2029, and UTA is adjusting Routes 39, 47, and 227 to support the new service.

  • Spring Change Day is on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
  • The Midvalley Express (Route 50X) will launch on Spring Change Day.
  • The Midvalley Express will be free to ride until April 2029.

The players

Utah Transit Authority

The public transportation agency serving the Wasatch Front region of Utah, including Salt Lake City and surrounding cities.

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The takeaway

These changes by UTA aim to make public transit more accessible and convenient for riders, especially those who rely on reduced fares. The new Midvalley Express route and free electric bus service demonstrate UTA's commitment to improving service quality and promoting sustainable transportation options in the region.