News

Bus with open door and sign that says Zero Fare

GRTC Board Approves FY2027 Budget Focused on Reliability, Open Access, and Regional Growth

May 19, 2026

Press Releases

The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) Board of Directors approved GRTC’s FY2027 operating and capital budget Tuesday, continuing investment in reliable transit service, critical infrastructure, and Open Access transit across the Richmond region.

The approved FY2027 budget totals approximately $101 million and maintains Open Access transit for another fiscal year, allowing riders to continue accessing GRTC services without fares while the agency works alongside regional and community partners on long-term funding efforts.

“Fare-free transit continues to make a real difference for families and riders across our region,” said Sheryl Adams, CEO of GRTC. “As our communities continue to grow, we must continue prioritizing accessibility, reliability, and connectivity through public transportation.”

“This budget keeps us moving in the right direction by continuing to invest in fare-free transit, reliable service, and accessibility improvements that help keep our region connected,” said Tyrone Nelson, Chairman of the GRTC Board of Directors. “As our region grows, it’s important that we continue making transit accessibility and reliability a priority for our communities.”

The budget builds on a year of record ridership and continued system growth. In FY2026, GRTC surpassed 12 million passenger trips, reflecting continued demand for transit across the region.

Key FY2027 priorities include:

  • Continued Open Access transit service
  • Advancing the Pulse Western Extension project
  • Continued development of the North South Pulse corridor
  • Progress toward the Downtown Transfer Hub
  • Expansion of Essential Transit Infrastructure (ETI), including shelters, benches, and ADA-accessible improvements

GRTC also continues advancing sustainability efforts through the Transit Access Partnership (TAP), expanded community partnerships, fundraising initiatives, and growing advertising revenue to support the long-term future of Open Access transit in the Richmond region.