San Diego, February 7, 2026
The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) has reported remarkable achievements in ridership and service enhancements. With over 81 million boardings in Fiscal Year 2025, MTS shows a strong recovery in public transportation use, reaching near pre-pandemic levels. Key improvements include the launch of an overnight express bus service, new limited-edition commemorative cards, and substantial upgrades in digital signage and zero-emission buses, all aimed at enhancing safety and community engagement while facing future financial challenges.
San Diego’s Metropolitan Transit System Achieves Record Ridership and Service Enhancements in 2025
San Diego, CA – The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) reported significant milestones in 2025, including surpassing 80 million annual riders and implementing key service improvements.
Record Ridership
In Fiscal Year 2025, MTS recorded 81,181,071 boardings, marking a 7.1% increase from the previous year. This achievement brings annual ridership to 95.1% of pre-pandemic levels, indicating a strong recovery and growing public confidence in MTS services.
Service Enhancements
To meet the evolving needs of the community, MTS introduced several service enhancements in 2025:
- Route 910 – Overnight Express Bus Service: Launched on January 26, 2025, this service operates between San Ysidro and downtown San Diego during late-night and early-morning hours, providing a reliable transportation option when Trolley service is limited.
- PRONTO Commemorative Card Program: Expanded with three new limited-edition cards celebrating AAPI Heritage Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and San Diego FC, highlighting local artists and culture.
- Digital Signage Upgrades: Installed state-of-the-art Variable-Message Signs along the Trolley’s Orange Line, offering real-time updates on arrivals, service alerts, and events.
- Zero-Emission Buses: Achieved over one million miles with battery-electric buses, contributing to cleaner air and supporting the goal of a carbon-neutral fleet by 2040.
Safety and Security
MTS implemented a targeted Security Initiative, resulting in a 24% decrease in reported crime across the system. This effort led to the agency receiving the Transportation Security Administration’s Gold Standard Award, one of only two U.S. transit agencies to earn this distinction.
Community Engagement
In October 2025, MTS and North County Transit – San Diego Railroad (NCTD) reported strong ridership during Free Ride Day, with over 334,000 passenger trips across their systems. This event highlighted the community’s growing reliance on public transit for daily commutes and leisure activities.
Financial Outlook
Despite these advancements, MTS faces a projected $120 million budget shortfall by July 2028. The agency is actively seeking solutions to address this fiscal challenge and ensure the continued provision of essential transit services to the San Diego community.
Background
Established to provide public transportation across San Diego County, MTS operates a network of bus routes and Trolley lines serving a diverse population. The agency is committed to enhancing mobility, safety, and sustainability, continually adapting to the region’s needs and challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the significance of MTS surpassing 80 million annual riders?
Surpassing 80 million annual riders indicates a strong recovery and growing public confidence in MTS services, with ridership reaching 95.1% of pre-pandemic levels.
What is Route 910, and when was it launched?
Route 910 is an overnight express bus service operating between San Ysidro and downtown San Diego during late-night and early-morning hours. It was launched on January 26, 2025.
How has MTS improved safety and security in 2025?
MTS implemented a targeted Security Initiative, resulting in a 24% decrease in reported crime across the system and earning the Transportation Security Administration’s Gold Standard Award.
What challenges is MTS facing regarding its budget?
MTS faces a projected $120 million budget shortfall by July 2028 and is actively seeking solutions to address this fiscal challenge.
Key Features of MTS’s 2025 Achievements
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Record Ridership | 81,181,071 boardings in Fiscal Year 2025, a 7.1% increase from the previous year, reaching 95.1% of pre-pandemic levels. |
| Route 910 – Overnight Express Bus Service | Launched on January 26, 2025, operating between San Ysidro and downtown San Diego during late-night and early-morning hours. |
| PRONTO Commemorative Card Program | Expanded with three new limited-edition cards celebrating AAPI Heritage Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and San Diego FC. |
| Digital Signage Upgrades | Installed state-of-the-art Variable-Message Signs along the Trolley’s Orange Line, offering real-time updates on arrivals, service alerts, and events. |
| Zero-Emission Buses | Achieved over one million miles with battery-electric buses, contributing to cleaner air and supporting the goal of a carbon-neutral fleet by 2040. |
| Safety and Security | Implemented a Security Initiative resulting in a 24% decrease in reported crime and earned the Transportation Security Administration’s Gold Standard Award. |
| Community Engagement | Reported over 334,000 passenger trips during Free Ride Day in October 2025, highlighting the community’s growing reliance on public transit. |
| Financial Outlook | Facing a projected $120 million budget shortfall by July 2028, actively seeking solutions to address this fiscal challenge. |
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