RiverCities bus ridership grows nearly 9% in a year

Ridership still down from pre-pandemic highs despite new Vancouver route

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:15pm

RiverCities, the public transportation system serving the cities of Vancouver and Longview in Washington, has seen a nearly 9% increase in bus ridership over the past year. However, ridership numbers are still below pre-pandemic levels despite the launch of a new route in Vancouver.

Why it matters

The growth in bus ridership, while positive, highlights the ongoing challenges public transit systems face in recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maintaining and growing ridership is crucial for RiverCities to continue providing essential transportation services to the local community.

The details

The new Vancouver route, which was launched in 2025, has been cited as a success by RiverCities officials, contributing to the nearly 9% increase in overall ridership. However, ridership numbers are still down compared to pre-pandemic levels, as many commuters have continued to rely on personal vehicles for transportation.

  • RiverCities launched a new route in Vancouver in 2025.
  • The nearly 9% increase in bus ridership occurred over the past year.

The players

RiverCities

The public transportation system serving the cities of Vancouver and Longview in Washington.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The growth in RiverCities' bus ridership, while positive, highlights the ongoing challenges public transit systems face in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Maintaining and growing ridership is crucial for RiverCities to continue providing essential transportation services to the local community.