Simplified: Nearly two years after reworking the city's bus routes, transit provider Via is teaming up with the city on a "Better Bus" initiative to improve rider experience and, hopefully, encourage more people to try the bus system.

Why it matters

  • Via took over management of Sioux Area Metro in 2024, and soon after implemented new routes and citywide coverage with SAM on Demand. Since those changes, fixed-route ridership is up 37%, according to data shared by Via.
  • The next phase of changes – dubbed the "Better Bus" initiative – involves improvements to the rider experience and an emphasis on community connection.
  • That effort includes four new bus wraps designed by local artists, comfier seats, and even a new mascot – Sammy, the buffalo – who will make his debut during the downtown Open Streets event on Friday evening.
"We want to make sure that people think that the bus is a service that anyone can take advantage of – not just something that is for the people that have to take the bus," said Joe Martin, vice president of partnerships with Via.

Tell me more

Improvements under the Better Bus initiative include nicer fabric on the seats, better lighting within the vehicle, and more technology to ensure riders know where they are along the route at any given time.

  • The four buses with wraps designed by local artists already have these interior improvements, and as Sioux Area Metro phases in new buses, they'll see those same improvements, Martin said.

At this time, the improvements won't lead to any fare increases, though Martin said Via is starting to evaluate the fare structure and has future plans to look at "simplifying" the price tiers.

  • No changes would happen without significant public input, though, Transit Program Coordinator Bren Schweitzer said, adding the city is likely at least a year or two out from that process.

What happens next?

There are changes coming to bus stops across the city, thanks to a federal grant. Work on those replacement shelters is ongoing, Schweitzer said.

Why Sioux Falls will soon have new bus shelters
The City of Sioux Falls received a nearly $2 million federal grant to fund dozens of new bus shelters across town over the next few years.
Sioux Falls SimplifiedMegan Raposa

The city is also nearing completion of a nearly $1 million remodel of the downtown bus depot, with construction expected to wrap up in October, Schweitzer said.