New Bus Routes Start August 30, 2026
August 24, 2026
Changes are coming to certain Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) bus routes, with new options for passengers starting August 30, 2026. These changes reflect customer feedback and ridership analysis, as we work to ensure that transit routes are serving our community in the most effective way possible.
New Routes in Pasco
Newly-created Routes 60 and 61 will connect passengers from the 22nd Avenue Transit Center to the Pasco Flea Market and the Columbia Basin Veterans Center, respectively. Route 60 will operate on Saturday and Sunday, while Route 61 is scheduled to operate Monday-Friday.
Changes to Overload Tripper Buses in Richland
Richland passengers may notice reductions to certain Overload Tripper or “helper” buses that are used to ease congestion during peak travel times. While the Overload Trippers are not part of the regular schedule, this change could mean fewer buses driving on Route 26 and Route 123 during the morning and afternoon commute.
The Route 123s bus will no longer offer a morning trip. It will be available in the afternoon on a shortened route, that does not include Leslie Road/Rachel Road.
The Route 26s bus will still leave Knight Street Transit Center at 7:10 a.m. but will no longer run at 7:15 a.m. Route 26s will depart Hanford High School at 2:30 p.m. and 2:40 p.m., but the 3:00 p.m. trip will not be available after August 30.
Newly-Added Overload Tripper Buses in Pasco
In Pasco, an Overload Tripper on Route 68 will now be available during the afternoon commute, departing Chapel Hill/Road 100 at approximately 2:15 p.m. on most weekdays, and 12:15 p.m. on Pasco School District early release days. An Overload Tripper bus will also help ease crowding on Route 65 in Pasco during the afternoon commute, departing at approximately 3:05 p.m. (1:05 p.m. on early release days). This bus will provide direct service to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties – Pasco Clubhouse.
BFT will add a new Overload Tripper bus on Route 3, which connects Pasco and Kennewick via the Cable Bridge, with an additional daily afternoon trip departing the 22nd Avenue Transit Center at approximately 3:05 p.m. The bus will depart at approximately 1:05 p.m. on Pasco School District early release days.
The most up-to-date transit information, including any delays or detours, is available through the free Transit app. Visit www.BFT.org/Transit-App to learn more.
