- Evaluate existing and future transit needs.
- Identify a site that supports daily operations, long-term growth, and cost efficiency.
- Improve service reliability and maintainability for Bullhead City Transit.
Planning and Development
Transit Site Selection Study
The City of Bullhead City completed a Transit Site Selection Study to identify the best location for a new operations and maintenance facility. The project ensures the City can continue providing safe, reliable, and efficient transit service as the community grows.
- Multiple sites across Bullhead City were reviewed based on cost, access, size, and environmental considerations.
- The study determined a preferred site that meets operational requirements and positions the City for future expansion.
- Recommended investments will enhance safety, reduce maintenance delays, and improve rider experience.
This facility will support:
- More reliable bus service for residents and visitors.
- Improved efficiency in fleet maintenance and operations.
- Long-term cost savings through strategic site development.
The study ensures Bullhead City Transit remains prepared to meet growing demand and continues connecting the community with accessible, dependable service.
View the full Bullhead City Transit Site Selection Report.
Short Range Transit Plan
was developed in 2013–2014 by the Arizona Department of Transportation and Moore & Associates, working closely with Bullhead City and regional partners. The plan was needed due to funding changes and declining ridership.
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The Bullhead Area Transit System (BATS) began as a demand-response service in 2000 and expanded to fixed routes in 2003.
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By 2009, annual ridership reached over 181,000 trips, but funding cuts in 2010 reduced service and ridership.
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In 2013, BATS operated three lines: Red, Blue, and Green, plus Dial-A-BATS demand-response service.
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Ridership was concentrated on the Red Line, while the Green Line had the lowest use but was partly supported by contributions from Katherine Heights and the Western Arizona Regional Medical Center.
The plan established four primary goals:
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Provide safe, efficient, accessible transit for residents and visitors.
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Meet community mobility needs, including access to jobs, healthcare, and shopping.
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Raise awareness and use of BATS through branding and marketing.
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Improve efficiency in administration and operations with better technology, facilities, and processes.
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The study reviewed ridership data, on-time performance, and customer surveys.
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Peer comparisons with other small systems showed areas for efficiency improvement.
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Rider feedback emphasized the need for longer service hours, regional connections, and clearer service information.
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Optimization (short-term): adjust schedules, split routes, improve transfers, and consider changes to Dial-A-BATS.
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Reallocation (mid-term): realign routes, consolidate underused segments, and create a transfer hub at Safeway.
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Expansion (long-term): add evening and Sunday service, commuter routes, regional connections, and extended coverage.
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The report projected operating and capital costs over five years.
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It included a fleet replacement plan and identified funding sources such as grants, partnerships, and local contributions.
View the full Short Range Transit Plan
