Public Transit and Rail in Nevada

Public Transit and Rail in Nevada

Nevada’s public transportation system includes a mix of **urban transit networks**, **regional buses**, **intercity shuttles**, and **passenger rail**—with a focus on serving metro areas like Las Vegas and Reno. While Nevada is a car-dependent state, its growing population, tourism economy, and interest in sustainable transport have expanded transit and rail offerings in recent years.

This page provides an overview of major transit agencies, passenger rail service, and future transportation projects across the state.

Urban Public Transit

RTC Southern Nevada (Las Vegas Region)

• Operated by the **Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC)**.
• Serves the Las Vegas Valley with over 35 bus routes, including:

 * **The Deuce** (double-decker service on the Strip)
 * **MAX and BHX** (Bus Rapid Transit routes)
 * **Residential, commuter, and express lines**

• Offers paratransit service for eligible riders with disabilities.
• Plans include expanded mobility hubs and integrated bike-share programs.
• Website: https://www.rtcsnv.com

RTC Washoe (Reno-Sparks Region)

• Operated by the **Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County**.
• Offers local and regional bus service including:

 * **Rapid Lines**: Virginia Line (RAPID) connects UNR to Meadowood Mall
 * Local fixed routes and flexible paratransit
 * Campus and event service during major festivals or university events

• Website: https://www.rtcwashoe.com

Rural and Intercity Bus Services

• **Silver State Trailways**, **Salt Lake Express**, and private operators offer:

 * Routes between Las Vegas, Reno, Elko, Ely, and out-of-state destinations
 * Service to airports, tribal communities, and event venues

• **NDOT’s Coordinated Mobility Program** funds rural transit through local partnerships

 * Examples: Ely Bus, Mesquite Senior Transit, Yerington Transit

Intercity Passenger Rail

Amtrak

• **California Zephyr Line**:

 * Stops in **Reno**, **Sparks**, **Winnemucca**, and **Elko**
 * Daily service between **Chicago and San Francisco Bay Area**
 * Scenic route through the Sierra Nevada and high desert
 * Connects to **Thruway bus service** linking to Las Vegas

• Website: https://www.amtrak.com

Brightline West (Under Development)

• A proposed **high-speed rail line** between **Las Vegas and Southern California** (Victorville, with future connection to LA)
• Backed by Brightline and federal infrastructure support
• Construction expected to begin in the mid-2020s with completion planned by decade’s end

Rail Freight and Economic Corridors

• Nevada is a critical **freight rail corridor**, especially along the **I-80 and US 95 corridors**

 * Served by **Union Pacific** and **BNSF**
 * Supports logistics, mining, and warehouse distribution

• Industrial centers near **Fernley**, **Sparks**, and **Las Vegas** are growing hubs for rail-to-truck intermodal shipping.

Active Transportation and Transit Access

• Las Vegas and Reno continue to invest in:

 * Bus rapid transit (BRT) and zero-emission buses
 * Multi-modal stations and park-and-ride lots
 * Bike racks on buses and downtown bike-share systems

• Efforts to connect trails, greenways, and transit are supported by NDOT’s **Complete Streets** initiatives.

Challenges and Opportunities

• **Limited rural access**: Many small towns and tribal areas lack consistent transit options
• **Funding gaps**: Transit in Nevada relies heavily on local sales taxes and federal grants
• **Growth and congestion**: Urban areas need more frequent, higher-capacity routes
• **Tourism and event travel**: High demand during conventions, sports, and festivals prompts interest in expanded rail and express bus options