Birmingham City Council Approves New Transit Budget for 2025
Birmingham, AL – The Birmingham City Council recently approved a significant budget allocation of $14 million for the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) for the fiscal year 2025. This funding aims to enhance the local transit system, which has indicated impressive growth and ridership figures over the past few months.
Transit System Growth
BJCTA Executive Director and CEO Charlotte Shaw shared that the transit system has experienced “substantial” growth just within the last five months. In fact, the bus rapid transit system, referred to as the Birmingham Express, has seen rapid growth since its inception in September 2022, reflecting a remarkable increase of 207% in ridership, with a 153% increase since May alone.
Currently, the Birmingham Express service accommodates upwards of 20,000 riders a month. This makes it Alabama’s first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and connects various neighborhoods from the Woodlawn Transit Center in the East to the Crossplex Transit Center in the West.
New Route Innovations
The BJCTA has also introduced new routes to ensure comprehensive coverage across the city. The Magic City Connector, for instance, runs along 20th Street and links to several attractions throughout Birmingham. In addition, the MAX Direct service caters to commuters traveling to and from Mountain Brook.
Future Plans for Expansion
Looking ahead, Shaw announced plans for the 2025 transit year which includes adding more platforms downtown. “We have property now around those areas. So, we’re going to develop affordable housing and multi-use space,” she stated. This development is part of the county’s efforts to enhance walkability and accessibility for residents, highlighting the vision that “transit should be one of those convenient places people can go around where they live.”
Micro-Transit and Affordability
The BJCTA is also set to expand its micro-transit system, which provides services for groups of 15 passengers or less. This upcoming extension will facilitate rides directly between Mountain Brook and Homewood, all for an affordable fare of just $1.50. Currently, the Birmingham Express operates as a complimentary service.
Recognition and Comparisons
Shaw prides Birmingham’s public transportation system on keeping pace with those in cities of similar sizes. In 2024, the Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority received recognition as an Outstanding Public Transportation System by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). This acknowledgment came as part of the prestigious 2024 APTA Awards, celebrating transit systems with over 3 million annual passenger trips.
In summary, the Birmingham City Council’s budget approval signals a reflective growth period for the BJCTA, showcasing a commitment to enhancing transit services for the community. With new innovations and future plans in place, officials are optimistic about the prospects of Birmingham’s transit landscape.
