Asheville Reporter

The City of Asheville has announced updates to the ART bus service in response to improved road conditions following Tropical Storm Helene. Starting Monday, October 21, the bus service will extend its operating hours on weekdays and Saturdays from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., while Sunday service hours will remain unchanged. All ART bus services will continue to be free until further notice.

On October 21, four additional routes—S1, S2, W5, and 170 (Black Mountain)—will resume operations. This brings the total number of active routes to 17 out of 19. Notably, route 170 will undergo significant changes to connect Downtown Asheville with Black Mountain. The route will depart hourly from the ART station with specific times for weekdays and weekends.

Flag stops along these routes will be discontinued starting Monday; passengers must use designated stops for boarding.

ART Paratransit services are also resuming where possible. Customers needing this service should contact (828) 250-6750 for scheduling.

Additionally, shuttle services will commence on October 21 between area shelters and the FEMA Resource Center at AC Reynolds High School from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ART buses are also providing access to water distribution sites and Community Care Stations throughout the city. These stations offer amenities such as hot showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, charging stations, restrooms, water, and meals.

For early voting that began on October 17th in Buncombe County, several voting locations can be reached via ART bus routes.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about any changes by checking the Service Alerts page or signing up for iRide email alerts or text notifications.

The City continues to update recovery resources daily and encourages residents to visit their news update page for more information.