Idaho Falls City Council Approves Public Transportation Expansion
The Idaho Falls City Council has approved enhancements to the city’s public transportation system through Greater Idaho Falls Transit (GIFT). This represents a meaningful improvement for residents seeking reliable, accessible transit options amid regional growth.
What This Means for Locals
Eastern Idaho’s population growth has increased pressure on roads, parking, and commuting infrastructure. Expanded bus service and new routes are expected to ease daily commutes for students, workers, and residents traveling to jobs (including at the Idaho National Laboratory), schools, medical appointments, and shopping areas.
The Expansion: Key Details
The plan includes several service improvements:
- Addition of new routes connecting downtown Idaho Falls to outlying neighborhoods, the Idaho National Laboratory area, and nearby communities in Bonneville County.
- Extended weekday service hours into the early evening, plus new or expanded weekend routes.
- Modern, accessible buses equipped with wheelchair lifts, bike racks, and other amenities.
- Launch of a mobile application (planned for fall) for real-time tracking, schedules, and trip planning.
- Promotional reduced fares for students and seniors during the initial six-month period.
City officials noted that the project will be funded through a combination of local sales tax revenue, state and federal grants, and existing budgets — avoiding any immediate increase in property taxes.
Community Response
Local businesses along the planned routes have expressed support, anticipating increased foot traffic and easier customer access. Residents attending public meetings have highlighted potential environmental benefits from reduced vehicle traffic, as well as improved equity for those who rely on public transit.