Navigating Transit in Kittitas County: A Guide for New Riders
By Tasha Maxwell
If you're new to using public transportation in Kittitas County, you're not alone. Whether you're commuting to work, heading to class, or trying to get to an appointment without a car, figuring out the local bus system can feel overwhelming at first.
But once you understand a few key basics, it's simple, and even empowering.
Starting Out: What to Expect
When you step onto a Central Transit bus, you’ll notice things run a little differently than in big cities. Our local routes are friendly, easy to follow, and often free or very low cost.
But there are still rules to follow:
Always buckle up and stay seated.
If you're under 10, bring an adult with you.
Lying down or sleeping on the bus isn’t allowed.
Leave weapons at home; buses are weapon-free zones.
These rules are about keeping everyone safe and making sure the ride works for all of us.
Riding Respectfully
The bus is a shared space. What you do affects the experience of every rider, so a little courtesy goes a long way.
Simple tips for being a good rider:
Let people get off before you step on.
Offer your seat if someone needs it more.
Keep your bags close and your music to yourself (use headphones).
Be mindful of volume on calls or conversations.
And always greet your driver. A nod or a thank-you goes a long way.
Bringing Your Stuff on Board
You can bring a lot with you, but not everything.
Pets need to be in a carrier unless they’re service animals.
Strollers should be folded before boarding.
Bikes go on the racks at the front of the bus.
Don’t bring oversized or rolling luggage that blocks aisles.
If you're wearing rollerblades, take them off before you get on.
Being prepared means your ride, and everyone else's, is smoother.
Understanding the Routes
The bus system in Ellensburg is designed to get you where you need to go, whether that’s the grocery store, a medical appointment, or school.
Here’s a quick breakdown of local routes:
Route 12: Stops at McDonalds, Fred Meyer, CWU, and the Rodeo Grounds.
Route 13: Covers the FISH Food Bank, CWU, Fred Meyer, and the hospital.
Route 14: Runs by Ellensburg High School, parks, and childcare centers.
Routes 15 & 16: Go to government and service buildings like the courthouse, health network, and DSHS.
If you're heading outside of Ellensburg, the Kittitas County Connector (KCC) has two routes:
KCC West: Serves Cle Elum, Roslyn, and Ronald.
KCC East: Limited service to Kittitas City Hall on specific days.
What If I Need Extra Help?
Not everyone can easily hop on a fixed-route bus. That’s why Dial-A-Ride exists. It’s a pre-scheduled ride service for people who are elderly, disabled, or have limited income and no access to transportation.
To use it, just call (509) 933-2287 to schedule your trip.
Planning Your Ride
Once you know where you want to go, there are several ways to plan your route:
Visit www.centraltransit.org and use the “Plan Your Ride” tool.
Download the Transit app or check Google Maps for live route tracking.
Call Central Transit directly at (509) 933-2287 if you need help.
You’ll also want to keep in mind that public transit does not operate on federal holidays, including:
New Year’s Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas
Common Questions from New Riders
Is it free to ride?
All rides are free.
Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are always welcome.
What happens if I miss my bus?
Just check the app or website to find the next one. Most routes run regularly.
Are buses ADA accessible?
Yes, all buses are equipped for accessibility.
Still Feeling Unsure?
If you’d rather not figure it out alone, you're not stuck. HopeSource offers free one-on-one coaching to help you feel confident using the bus.
📞 Call (509) 933-2287 to schedule your session.
Whether it's your first ride or your fiftieth, public transportation in Kittitas County can be a safe, easy, and even empowering way to get where you need to go.