RTS Service Changes

Bill Allen | June 19, 2025 | Personal Injury

RTS Service Changes

The City of Gainesville’s Regional Transit System (RTS) is undergoing major service changes beginning June 30, and local residents should be prepared. Due to significant funding cuts from the University of Florida (UF), RTS will be adjusting its bus routes and service levels across the city. 

These changes could affect thousands of daily riders—including students, workers, and individuals who rely on public transportation for essential travel. This article will look at what is changing, who will be affected, and how to prepare for the coming changes. 

Why Are RTS Services Changing?

The upcoming RTS service changes are the result of budget reductions stemming from UF’s decision to cut funding. Historically, UF has contributed a significant portion of the operating budget for Gainesville’s public transit system, as many students, faculty, and staff rely heavily on RTS. With that financial support being reduced, RTS is now forced to re-evaluate and scale back its service offerings.

The changes will go into effect Sunday, June 30, 2025, and will include route reductions, schedule modifications, and, in some cases, route eliminations.

Who Will Be Affected?

While the entire Gainesville community may feel the effects of the RTS changes, certain groups will be more directly impacted:

  • University of Florida students who commute to and from campus
  • Employees who depend on RTS for daily travel to work
  • Low-income residents and individuals without access to a personal vehicle
  • Elderly and disabled riders who rely on accessible transit options

Reduced frequency and coverage could make it more difficult for riders to attend school, get to medical appointments, or travel to work. These challenges may result in increased use of bicycles, ride-share services, or walking—factors that could contribute to greater risks for pedestrian and cyclist accidents on Gainesville’s roads.

What Safety Concerns May Arise?

Changes in public transportation often lead to ripple effects throughout a city’s transportation system. 

Many personal injury attorneys are particularly attuned to the increased safety risks that may follow, such as:

  • More pedestrians and cyclists on the roads, often in areas not designed for heavy foot or bike traffic
  • Greater traffic congestion due to more personal vehicles on the road
  • Longer commute times, leading to driver frustration and potentially risky behavior behind the wheel
  • Increased demand for ride-shares, which may raise the number of distracted or overworked drivers on the streets

If you or someone you love is injured as a pedestrian, cyclist, or passenger due to changes in transportation infrastructure, know that legal help is available.

How to Prepare for the RTS Service Changes

With the changes looming, now is the time to plan ahead. 

Here are a few proactive steps Gainesville residents can take:

  • Check the RTS website or app regularly for updated route and schedule information.
  • Explore alternative transportation methods such as biking, walking, or carpooling.
  • Plan additional travel time into your daily routine to accommodate for delays or rerouted buses.
  • Stay alert on the roads, especially in areas where pedestrian and cyclist traffic may increase.

By taking these steps now, you can navigate the upcoming RTS service changes with confidence and minimize disruptions to your daily commute.

Know Your Rights if You’re Injured

Reduced access to public transportation can create inconvenience and hardship. When that hardship results in injury—whether it’s a pedestrian hit by a distracted driver, a cyclist struck in an unsafe intersection, or a passenger hurt in a ride-share accident—you have the right to pursue compensation.

If you’ve been involved in an accident that you believe was caused by inadequate transportation infrastructure, poor road conditions, or driver negligence, Gainesville personal injury lawyers are standing by to help.

The RTS service changes beginning June 30 represent more than just a shift in bus routes—they highlight the far-reaching effects of funding decisions on public safety, mobility, and access to resources. As Gainesville adapts to these changes, it’s important to remain vigilant, informed, and proactive.

If you or a loved one is injured during this transitional period, Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers is here to stand by your side. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the road ahead with confidence.

Contact Our Gainesville Personal Injury Law Firm at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers in North Central Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville personal injury lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today, we’re open 24 hours daily.

We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258