START Bus - Southern Teton Area Rapid Transit

The START Bus system provides essential public transportation throughout Jackson Hole and surrounding communities, offering free in-town service and affordable regional routes. Whether you're commuting to work, heading to the ski resort, or reducing your environmental footprint, START Bus is your reliable transportation solution.

Free In-Town Service

All START Bus service within Jackson town limits is completely free, making public transportation accessible to everyone in our community. The Town Shuttle operates year-round with service every 30 minutes during peak hours, connecting neighborhoods, downtown businesses, shopping areas, and community facilities. This free service reduces traffic congestion, provides transportation for residents without vehicles, and supports environmental sustainability by decreasing single-occupancy vehicle trips.

Free service also operates between certain Teton Village stops, allowing skiers, workers, and visitors to move between lodging areas and ski resort facilities without cost. This service is particularly valuable during the busy winter ski season when parking at Teton Village can be challenging.

Route Network

START operates an extensive network of routes serving Jackson Hole and neighboring valleys:

• Town Shuttle: Year-round service throughout Jackson with frequent 30-minute intervals, connecting downtown, residential neighborhoods, and major destinations
• Village Route: Connects Jackson to Teton Village and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, essential for workers and visitors
• Teton Village Local: Free service between Teton Village locations
• South Park Loop: Serves South Park residential area south of Jackson
• Teton Valley Route: Commuter service to Driggs and Victor, Idaho, connecting workers who live in more affordable Teton Valley with Jackson Hole jobs
• Star Valley Route: Service to Alpine and Etna, Wyoming, serving another important commuter corridor
• Targhee Route: Seasonal service to Grand Targhee Resort
• Recreation Routes: Seasonal service to trailheads and recreation areas

The system operates 8 routes during peak winter season (typically December through March) and 5 routes during spring, summer, and fall. Route schedules vary seasonally to match demand patterns and provide efficient service when and where it's needed most.

Fares and Passes

START Bus fares are affordable and designed to encourage ridership:

• Free: All service within Jackson town limits and between certain Teton Village stops
• $3 each way: Jackson to Teton Village
• $8 each way: Teton Valley (Driggs/Victor) and Star Valley (Alpine/Etna) commuter routes
• Monthly Passes: Available for frequent riders, offering unlimited rides at discounted rates
• Employer Programs: Many Jackson Hole employers provide START Bus passes as an employee benefit, reducing commuting costs and supporting sustainable transportation

Discounted fares may be available for seniors, students, and individuals with disabilities. Contact START Bus for current fare information and pass purchase options.

Schedules and Real-Time Information

START Bus provides multiple ways to access schedule information and track buses in real-time:

• Transit App: Download the Transit app on your smartphone to view real-time bus locations, arrival predictions, and route planning
• Phone Information: Contact START Bus for schedules, route information, and customer service
• Online Resources: Visit the START Bus website for downloadable schedules, route maps, and service updates
• Bus Stop Signs: Most stops display route information and schedules

Real-time tracking is particularly useful during winter when weather conditions can affect travel times. The Transit app shows exactly where buses are on their routes, allowing riders to time their trips accurately and minimize waiting in cold weather.

Environmental and Community Benefits

Public transportation provides significant environmental and social benefits for Jackson Hole:

• Reduced Emissions: Each person riding START Bus instead of driving alone reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality in our valley
• Traffic Congestion Relief: Public transit reduces the number of vehicles on roads, easing congestion in downtown Jackson and on Highway 22
• Affordable Transportation: START Bus provides essential mobility for workers, students, and residents who don't own vehicles or prefer not to drive
• Parking Reduction: Fewer cars on the road means less demand for parking spaces, preserving land for other uses
• Livability: A strong public transit system enhances community livability and aligns with Jackson's commitment to environmental stewardship

The Federal Transit Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, supports public transportation systems like START Bus through funding and technical assistance. According to transit research, every dollar invested in public transportation generates approximately four dollars in economic returns through reduced congestion, lower emissions, and improved mobility.

Joint Town-County Operation

START Bus is a joint operation of the Town of Jackson and Teton County, demonstrating effective intergovernmental collaboration. Both jurisdictions contribute funding to support operations, capital purchases, and service expansion. This partnership allows START to provide comprehensive service throughout the Jackson Hole area rather than being limited to municipal boundaries.

The system receives funding from multiple sources including local tax revenue, federal transit grants, fare revenue, and partnerships with major employers and the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. This diversified funding model provides stability and allows continued service improvements.

Fleet and Facilities

START Bus operates a modern fleet of buses equipped with:

• Wheelchair accessibility (ADA compliant)
• Bicycle racks for multi-modal transportation
• Ski and snowboard racks during winter season
• Comfortable seating and climate control
• GPS tracking for real-time arrival information

The system maintains buses and parks fleet vehicles at facilities shared between town and county operations. Regular maintenance ensures reliable service and passenger safety.

Riding START Bus

Using START Bus is simple:

1. Find your nearest bus stop or use the Transit app to locate stops along your route
2. Check the schedule or use real-time tracking to know when the next bus arrives
3. Wait at the designated stop; flag the driver if you're at a less-used location
4. Board through the front door, pay fare if required (exact change appreciated), or show your pass
5. Find a seat or hold onto handrails if standing
6. Signal your stop by pulling the cord or pushing the button when approaching your destination
7. Exit through the rear door

Drivers are helpful and accustomed to assisting new riders. Don't hesitate to ask questions about routes, stops, or connections.

Future Service Expansion

START Bus continues to evaluate service improvements and expansion opportunities based on community needs and available funding. Potential future enhancements include increased frequency on popular routes, extended seasonal service, additional recreation access routes, and fleet expansion including potentially electric buses to further reduce environmental impact.

Public input guides service planning. Contact START Bus or participate in public meetings to share your ideas for improving public transportation in Jackson Hole.