Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)

Are the buses usually on time?

Yes. We recommend arriving at your stop five minutes ahead of time, but there will be times that circumstances beyond our control occur (bad weather, accidents or other emergencies), causing unexpected delays. We will make every effort to meet published timetables, but we cannot be responsible for damage or inconvenience because of these delays.

Cancellations & Delays

Tune to WHAI 98.3 FM, Bear country 95.3 FM, WJDF 97.3 FM or call our dispatch office at (413) 773-8090 ext. 205.

What is a flag system?

We operate a flag system, which means that you may stand at a safe location anywhere along a bus route and flag (wave at) the driver to let him/her know you would like to ride the bus.  The driver will stop to pick you up if it is determined by the driver to be a safe location, do not assume that the bus will automatically stop for you.  FRTA bus stop signs and/or shelters may be located at some of our scheduled time point locations, please stand at these signs so the driver knows you are waiting for the bus.

We suggest calling our dispatch office at (413) 773-8090 ext. 204 or 205 if you will need to be picked up at a particular location that is not one of our designated stops.

What other Services are Available through the FRTA?

The FRTA contracts with the Department of Medical Assistance (DMA), Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) and Department of Public Health (DPH) for human service transportation services.

We arrange transportation by request for elders and the disabled residents in our 40-town area. We use a network of public and private transportation providers to provide this service. In order to qualify for these services, you must be 60 or older or have a significant mobility or functional impairment. Disabled customers must have a valid eligibility card issued by the FRTA.

We also provide services through our Med-Ride program.

Please call our office or Click Here.. for more information to see if you qualify for any of these Special services.

Did you know...?

All our buses are wheelchair accessible.

Transporting Bicycles (No gas powered or motorized bikes)

The Franklin Regional Transit Authority buses are equipped with two-position bicycle racks for your convenience. Please adhere to the following guidelines when traveling with your bicycle.

• Bicycles can be transported in the racks on any bus on a first come, first serve basis. If the racks are full, you must wait for the next available bus.
• The FRTA will not allow bicycles to be brought onto the bus for safety reasons.
• Alert the driver before using the bicycle rack (the driver may not see you).
• Cyclists must load and unload their own bicycles. The bus driver cannot leave the bus to provide assistance. Always load your bike from the curbside of the bus.
• Sit near the front of the bus and watch your bike. The FRTA (and its operator, Franklin Transit Management, Inc.) are not responsible for stolen bikes or other damages to bicycles carried on racks.