MCTS to Cut 20,000 Service Hours on Eight Routes

The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) will reduce bus service by about 20,000 hours beginning August 24, 2025, to address a projected $10.9 million budget deficit. Service cuts will target reduced frequency on eight routes, mainly during midday on weekdays and Saturdays, while avoiding route eliminations to minimize rider disruption. The deficit is driven by unexpected expenses, a structural budget gap, the end of federal COVID-19 relief, declining passenger revenue, and fare evasion policies that prevent drivers from requesting payment. County supervisors and transit workers expressed surprise at the deficit's scale and timing, with union contract negotiations ongoing and workers advocating for more authority over fare collection. MCTS leadership maintains that these cuts are a last resort and that MOVE2025 improvement projects will continue. Specific route details will be released in the coming weeks, with advance notice promised to riders.