Local match shortfall and reduced federal funding require critical adjustments to public transportation services.
FREMONT COUNTY, Wyo. – The Wind River Transportation Authority (WRTA) anticipates significant service reductions beginning August 1, 2026, due to reduced federal transit funding and a projected $365,675 local match shortfall for Federal Fiscal Year 2027.
The Fremont County Association of Governments (FCAG) Board determined that service reductions are necessary to align operations with available funding and preserve public transportation services for as long as possible.
“We have now reached the funding cliff we’ve warned about for months,” said Executive Director Tim Nichols. “The choice is between reducing service now or continuing on an unsustainable path that could ultimately jeopardize WRTA’s future.”
To date, the City of Riverton has committed $25,000 toward FY2027 operations. WRTA appreciates this support and continues seeking additional funding from local governments, community partners, and other sources. However, the remaining funding gap requires immediate action.
Beginning August 1, anticipated changes include discontinuing the Orange and Purple fixed routes and modifying the fixed-route network.
Proposed changes include:
- Riverton: Removal of fixed-route stops at SageWest Hospital, the Riverton Branch Library, and Wind River Hotel & Casino. These locations will remain available through Riverton demand-response service by calling (307) 856-9782.
- Lander: Removal of stops at First & Amoretti and Eighth & Washakie. The NOLS stop is proposed to move to Third & Main and will operate by request only.
- Ethete: Removal of the Little Wind Casino stop.
WRTA emphasized that passenger fares cannot solve the funding shortfall. Under Federal Transit Administration rules, fare revenue, which represents less than 2% of WRTA’s operating budget, cannot be used to satisfy the required local funding match.
The temporary Fare Free Summer program has been supported through the generous sponsorship of several local businesses and community partners. WRTA is grateful for their support. Dubois Rodeo Roundup transportation is expected to continue unless additional reductions become necessary.
Effective August 1, all WRTA service will operate only during established hours:
- Monday through Thursday: 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Friday: 6:00 a.m. to midnight
- Saturday: 6:00 p.m. to midnight
Transportation outside these hours, including early morning and late-night airport trips previously accommodated by WRTA, will no longer be available.
WRTA will continue pursuing grants, partnerships, and additional local funding but cannot confirm whether sufficient funding will be secured to avoid further reductions.
Updated route maps, schedules, and rider information will be released before the changes take effect through WRTA’s website, social media, and rider notifications.
The Wind River Transportation Authority provides fixed-route and demand-response public transportation throughout Fremont County, connecting residents to employment, healthcare, education, shopping, and other essential destinations.