IndyGo Ridership Hits 23-Year High

IndyGo says its ridership hit a 23-year high last year, with nearly 10.3 million passenger trips.

Spokesman Bryan Luellen says ridership has been trending upward since 2009, when about IndyGo logged about 8 million passenger trips.

Four frequent service routes – along North Meridian, East 38th, Washington Street and 10th Streets -- account for about 40 percent of IndyGo traffic.

"Where we see higher use, there is an underlying land use that’s supportive of transit. So as you’re seeing these new developments coming online … the market is demanding walkable, transit accessible housing," Luellen said.

Ridership increased last year despite unusually cold winter weather, which usually drives it down, Luellen said. And while ridership generally rises when gas prices are high, Luellen said he doesn’t expect it go down while gas prices are low.

"People that are committing to transit, maybe they’re doing it at first when it becomes painful for gas prices. But then, they realize that the conveniences far outweigh, even if gas prices are cheaper," he said.