How to Ride
Now that you know where you're going and which route is needed to get there, how do you ride the CMRTA buses? Don't worry - riding with the CMRTA is easy - and just one of the many reasons that makes public transportation a quick and convenient option for getting around town.
If you have any questions, please email us at CustomerService@gocmrta.com
Bus Stops
Bus stops are marked by a blue and white metal sign on a utility pole or on a metal pole. Each of these signs has a number which indicates the location of the stop. If you would like to know which routes come to that stop, please call the customer service line 255-7100 and tell them the stop number.
Bus Shelters
At various bus stops, shelters are provided by the City of Columbia, nearby institutions or local advertising companies. Some shelters throughout the area are not authorized bus stops. Please make sure the shelter location where you may wish to board a bus is marked with a "bus stop" sign.
Bike Racks
In an effort to increase mobility for our customers and encourage the use of alternative transportation, the CMRTA has installed bike racks on all of the CMRTA buses. These racks can hold two (2) standard bikes. For more information please download the Rack and Roll Brochure .
Identifying Your Bus
Locating your route on the CMRTA fixed route system is easy. All fixed routes are named by their destination point and have a unique number. The destination of each bus is displayed on the marquee above the windshield and also on the curbside of the bus. The route number is displayed at the rear of each bus.
Leaving the Bus
When you're ready to exit the bus, simply press the yellow pressure-activated strip located above the seats to sound the bell that will the signal the coach operator. CMRTA buses only drop passengers off at designated bus stops. Please remember to watch for your stop and sound the bell a block before the stop.
Our goal is to provide you with affordable, clean, safe service that is both convenient and on time. We hope that you'll enjoy your ride and help make it a pleasant trip for your fellow passengers as well. Please observe the following rules of courtesy while using the fixed route:
CMRTA Rules of the Road:
Please do not:
- Eat or drink
- Bring alcoholic beverages on the bus
- Play radios, tapes or compact disc players
- Bring pets on the bus (with the exception of seeing-eye dogs or other aid animals)
- Use profanity
Please remember to:
- Make front seats available to the elderly and disabled
- Move to the rear of the bus and use handrails if standing
- Exit by the rear door
