START reports record-setting winter

Jackson Hole’s public transportation system reports a record-setting winter.

Southern Teton Area Rapid Transit (START) said it moved 628,557 passengers this winter. That is the highest ridership in the organization’s history, surpassing last year’s record by over 17,000, 3%.

The number of people served at Teton Village over the winter was up 5% to 433,469. Of those, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort employees accounted for 24% of the rides. There were 98 daily runs from Jackson to Teton Village with an average of 3,142 riders per day. Cash customers totaled 81,881 passengers, ski pass holders were 67,040, and 3,727 were employer discounted riders.

“We have never carried more passengers for a winter season than we did this season,” Darren Brugmann, START Director said. “We are proud of the partnership we have with the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and the Teton Village Association as we work together to reduce traffic congestion to and from the resort. As we continue to gain ridership, we are constantly looking for ways to enhance service.”

Ahead, START is investigating the feasibility of micro-transit opportunities and is also conducting a route analysis. The service will incorporate up to eight electric buses into the fleet.