**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

Oct. 25, 2024

ST. GEORGE — A new public transit route connecting St. George to Zion National Park is set to launch. An opening event to mark the arrival of the new Zion Route is set for November 1 at 9:30 a.m. in the Dixie Convention Center parking lot near the corner of 120 East and 1670 South.

To celebrate, fares will be free for all passengers on Nov. 1.

“We’re excited to offer a service that makes Zion more accessible to our residents while helping ease traffic on the roads,” said St. George Mayor Michele Randall. “This is a great way for more people to enjoy Zion without needing to drive.”

Operated by the City of St. George through the region’s SunTran bus service, the 42-mile Zion Route will have stops in St. George, Washington, Hurricane, La Verkin, Virgin and Springdale. The new service aims to reduce traffic congestion while providing an affordable and convenient travel option. Buses will operate daily from 5:40 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

“Every rider on the bus means fewer cars on the road,” said Cameron Cutler, Director of Public Works for the City of St. George. “It’s a sustainable solution that will help both local commuters and park visitors.”

After the inaugural day, fares will cost $5 for each one-way trip, with an unlimited monthly pass available for $100. For frequent riders commuting to work five days a week, this could reduce the cost to around $2.50 per ride.

The project is supported by a $15 million grant from the Utah Department of Transportation and additional funds from Washington County’s sales tax. Initial investments include $3 million for five buses and $6 million for a new maintenance facility.

“The great thing about this route is that there is no impact on our City’s budget — or any of our surrounding cities’ budgets,” Randall added. “Our goal is to provide long-term, efficient service and we have the funding to do so.”

More information

www.sgcityutah.gov/suntran

www.sgcityutah.gov/zionroute

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Media contact:

David Cordero

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 435-627-4051