About Us
About Rides Mass Transit District
Rides Mass Transit District (RMTD) is a federally funded public transportation system providing safe, affordable, and accessible transit across southern and east central Illinois. Every trip is designed to support independence, opportunity, and quality of life for the people we serve.
- 17 Counties Served
- Door-to-door and fixed route service throughout southern and east central Illinois.
- Accessible Fleet
- Lift- and ramp-equipped vehicles with materials available in large print, Braille, and multiple languages.
- Since 1977
- Decades of experience connecting riders to work, school, healthcare, shopping, and community life.
Accessible & Affordable Public Transportation
From small towns to regional hubs, RMTD connects people to the places and services that keep communities strong.
- Door-to-door service by reservation
- Fixed routes in select communities
- Fully accessible vehicles
- Support for translation and alternative formats
Who We Are
Our Mission, Vision, And Values
Everything we do is grounded in a simple goal: provide reliable, inclusive public transportation that helps people move forward in their lives and strengthens the region we serve.
Mission
RMTD provides affordable, safe, and accessible public transportation for residents in our service area, promoting independence, self-sufficiency, and economic opportunity through every ride.
Vision
RMTD strives to be a regional leader in mobility innovation, delivering social and economic impact that helps create connected, livable communities across southern and east central Illinois.
Core Values
- Always looking for a way to say “yes” to riders’ needs.
- Delivering outstanding, respectful customer service on every trip.
- Building long-term partnerships with communities and local agencies.
Service Area
Public Transportation For Southern & East Central Illinois
RMTD serves 17 counties across southern and east central Illinois with a mix of door-to-door and fixed route service. Whether riders are commuting to work, heading to class, getting to medical appointments, or running errands, RMTD connects them to the places they rely on.
Our fleet is fully accessible, with lift- and ramp-equipped vehicles to serve older adults, people with disabilities, and anyone who benefits from additional assistance. Riders can also request information in large print, Braille, or translated formats through their local operations center.
How We Serve Riders
- Advance-reservation door-to-door trips for eligible communities.
- Fixed routes linking key destinations like schools, employers, clinics, and shopping areas.
- Coordinated operations centers across the region to help plan trips and answer questions.
- Resources to support Title VI and ADA requirements for equitable, accessible service.
Our Story
From Four Vans To A Regional Transit Network
RMTD began as a small demonstration program and has grown into a regional transit system connecting communities across southern and east central Illinois.
In the late 1970s, after a major bus operator left Pope and Hardin counties, local leaders stepped in to restore critical transportation. In 1977, Rides—then known as Rural Initiative Development of Effective Services—launched with four 15-passenger vans, focusing on nutrition centers and home-delivered meals.
Over time, RMTD expanded to serve additional counties, eventually forming Illinois’ first rural mass transit district and earning national recognition for service and coordination. Today, RMTD connects communities across the region with clean, comfortable, and cost-effective public transportation.
View full historyFor Riders
What You Can Expect From RMTD
RMTD is built around riders. From safety and accessibility to customer service, our team is focused on making every trip as smooth as possible.
Safety First
Professional drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and clear safety procedures help keep riders secure on every trip.
Reliable Service
Door-to-door trips and fixed routes are designed to connect riders with the places they visit most, from workplaces to medical providers.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Lift- and ramp-equipped vehicles, priority seating, and alternative-format materials help ensure riders of all abilities can use the system.
Helpful Support
Local operations centers assist with trip planning, reservations, fares, and questions so riders never have to navigate the system alone.
Impact
Why Public Transit Matters Here
Public transportation is more than a ride—it is a critical part of the region’s economy, environment, and overall quality of life.
Economic Opportunity
Public transit connects people to jobs, education, and services, supporting local employers and helping residents reach opportunities they might otherwise miss.
Stronger Communities
Dependable transportation reduces isolation, supports community events, and keeps small towns linked to regional resources.
Environmental Benefits
Choosing transit can reduce fuel use and emissions compared to driving alone, supporting cleaner air and more sustainable growth.
Safer Travel
Riding transit is generally safer per mile than traveling by private vehicle, helping reduce traffic crashes and injuries on local roads.
Stay Connected
Get To Know Rides Mass Transit District
Learn more about our leadership, explore service options, or partner with us to support mobility in your community.