What is the Alachua County Connector?
Alachua County MV Connectors are your neighborhood transportation solution. They work just like traditional city buses with regular stops and regular schedules, but the vehicles are smaller and routes are more flexible. The Connector connects rural cities with RTS routes so you can travel anywhere RTS goes. The vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Where will it take me?
- The bus will take you from the RTS fixed stop at the Gainesville Plaza to the fixed stop at the City Hall in Archer; the bus stop sign is located in front of the UF building; or
- The bus will take you from the RTS fixed stop at the Walmart NW 13th Street to the fixed stop at Hitchcock Markets in Alachua. Every other trip the Connector will travel to the fixed stop at the City of High Springs Chamber of Commerce Building; or
- The bus will take you from RTS fixed stop at the Gainesville Oaks Mall to the fixed stop at the City of Newberry Municipal Building, next to the City Hall Office.
How to ride?
You can board at a stop designated by an Alachua County MV Connector sign at a regularly scheduled time - just as you would ride a regular city bus.
Or, if you are unable to get to a stop on the Connector route, you can request premium curbside service, and the Connector bus will pick you up or drop you off anywhere within the service area.
The Connector service area covers 3/4 of a mile from the fixed route and is clearly defined by maps and text descriptions shown on each brochure.
Please reference each Connector time table and service area to see if your location falls within 3/4 of a mile of the coverage area.
To make a reservation, call (352) 375-2784 at least two (2) hours in advance or up three (3) calendar days before you plan to travel. Reservations are taken Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Reservations for pick ups before 8:00 am must be made the previous business day by 5:00 pm.
How much does it cost?
From fixed point to fixed point, fare is $1.00. Premium curbside service within 3/4 of the fixed route, the fare is $2.00.
Rider tips
- Be at the fixed stop at least 5 minutes before the schedule time or at your requested curbside location 15 minutes before. The driver cannot wait for you.
- Stand in a visible location, and watch for the Alachua County MV Connector bus. The bus has a sign on each side.
- Have your exact fare before you board the vehicle. The driver does not carry change.
- Limit Carry-on items to no more than 2 grocery sized bags. Please note operators are not permitted to assist passengers with carry-on items.
- Avoid eating and drinking while on board.
This pilot service is sponsored by Alachua County and Florida Department of Transportation.