How do I figure out which route I need to use?
We have a trip planner available online and on our mobile app, Blacksburg Transit. Users enter their origin and destination addresses and choose a specific date and time. The trip planner will then provide directions to the closest stop, estimated departure time and which route to catch. You can also view our system map to determine which route to use.
Help, I still don't understand the routes/schedules!
We have friendly, helpful staff who are willing to help you plan your trip. Call us at 540-443-1500 or reach out to us on social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook).
Will the same route get me home?
Yes, but sometimes you can get home quicker by catching a different route. Typically, this happens in the area serviced by the Patrick Henry, Progress Street, Toms Creek and University City Boulevard routes. Our app and trip planner can help you figure this out; sometimes it’s as simple as crossing the street.
How do I know where to catch the bus on campus?
All buses on campus go to the Transit Center Loops, near the Perry St. parking garage. To There are two loops on either side of the garage, each route is assigned to one bay, visit ridebt.org/loops for route assignments.
How can I get to my class if the buses are always full
Plan ahead! Don't wait for the 7:45 a.m. bus to get to your 8 a.m. class, try catching the bus that leaves 10, 15 or 20 minutes prior. If you live in areas that are served by multiple routes, e.g. Patrick Henry/Progress Street, Hethwood, etc., consider crossing the street and catching a different bus.
Why are there multiple schedules for each route?
Most routes have multiple schedules available; these are broken down by service level and day of week, e.g. Full Service weekday or weekend, and Reduced service weekday or weekend. While this sounds complicated, the first thing to know is if we are operating on "Full Service" or "Reduced Service" which can be found by checking our service calendar.
What is the Difference between "Full Service" and "Reduced Service"?
BT adjusts service levels in Blacksburg to correspond with the Virginia Tech academic calendar – “Full Service” when Virginia Tech is in session, e.g. fall and spring semesters, and “Reduced Service” during most other times. During full service all routes are in operation with the most frequent service, typically every 10-15 minutes during the busiest hours (7 am – 7 pm). During reduced service fewer routes are in operation, with most operating every 30 minutes.
Full Service, Reduced Service, Weekends, How do I know which to follow?
Look at our homepage; in the center of the page you will see the front of the bus and today's date, it will also tell you which service level we're operating on. Take a look at the service calendar to figure out the schedule for a different date.
Why isn't every stop listed in the route schedule?
We have over 250 stops, just in Blacksburg. Listing every stop would make the route schedule really complex! However, our app and rider information tools provide estimated times for every stop.
What is a time check?
Time checks are points on a bus route that help ensure we stay on schedule. Typically there is one on campus and another off campus. Our schedule operates on departure times, so if a bus gets to a time check early, then it cannot leave until the time check is met. These are used as chronological points of reference for riders and drivers, to make sure we stay on schedule. Time checks are marked with yellow triangles on the downloadable maps located on our website.
Where can I get off the bus?
Our buses will only stop at designated BT bus stops.
How do I let the Driver know which stop I need?
Make sure to pull the yellow stop request cord located along the windows to let the driver know you need to get off at the next stop - make sure to do this with plenty of advanced notice. Need help? Let the driver know where you're going and they'll do their best to make sure you get off at the right stop.
When will the bus be at my stop?
If your stop is not listed as a time check, then you will need to guesstimate when the bus will arrive. For example, University City Boulevard time checks at Patrick Henry at 8 a.m., and it takes 15 minutes to get to campus. Or, you can use our live map on our website or download our app. We recommend getting to a stop at least 5 minutes before the predicted time as buses will only wait at time checks.
What if I lost something on the bus?
Please fill out our Lost and Found Form. Lost items are available for pickup Monday-Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. Items lost on the bus will stay on the bus until it returns to BT at the end of the service day. The best way to reunite with your item the same day is by meeting up with the bus you rode. Need help finding it? Call us at 540-443-1500 or reach out to us on social media.