New Citrus Connection pilot project to extend service hours

LAKELAND, Fla. — Citrus Connection recently announced it is extending service by three hours on its most popular routes.

The move is part of a $1.1 million pilot project funded by the Florida Department of Transportation.

The extended service pilot project will focus on the following routes, which account for over 50% of the transit company’s ridership:

• Gold Line (U.S. 98 North — Lakeland business corridor)
• Blue Line 2 (South Florida Avenue — Lakeland)
• Route 30 (Winter Haven to Legoland)
• Route 15 (Lake Alfred to Haines City)
• Purple Line (regional connector: Lakeland Downtown Terminal to Winter Haven Downtown Terminal)

Most mornings, you’ll find resident Nancy Cooper waiting in downtown Lakeland for the Purple Line. Since retiring in 2005, she says exploring the different stops along the way has helped keep her busy.

“I love getting out each and every day. Sometimes I ride the bus to different cities,” she said.

However, she says she’s unable to stay out for long. Service ends at varying times on bus routes, but the latest is currently 7:15 p.m.

“If I’m some place after that time, I’ve got to walk home, catch an Uber to try to get home,” she said.

Like Cooper, nearly 65% of Citrus Connection’s customers requested longer service hours, according to a recent survey. Now, General Manager Tom Phillips says the transit system is able to meet riders’ needs, especially those who work later shifts.

“This allows us to be relevant in the second-shift workers’ lives, but also allows those people in the service sector, people who are working at restaurants for example, now they can pick up later shifts and still use public transportation,” Phillips said.

While the pilot project is only expected to last for two years starting in October 2026, Cooper hopes the initiative stays around.

“That would be a good idea and also on Sundays, you know?” she said.

So she can continue visiting new places as she enjoys her retirement.