As many of you have already heard, TART Connect’s on-demand shuttle service will officially cease operations in Incline Village and Crystal Bay on December 11. For a community that has truly embraced this curb-to-curb microtransit service – whether for commuting, errands, dinner with friends, or simply avoiding snowy winter roads – this news feels like a real loss.
Since launching, TART Connect has provided over one million rides throughout North Lake Tahoe, with 65% of those rides used by full-time residents. It wasn’t just transportation; it was a meaningful quality-of-life service that reduced traffic, eased trailhead and beach congestion, supported local workers, and provided a convenient, eco-friendly alternative to driving.
That’s why the shutdown hits home.
Why the Shutdown Is Happening
The Nevada service area (Zone 3) has always relied on temporary, short-term funding agreements from multiple partners. This year, those funding sources tightened significantly as tourism revenue dropped, directly impacting dollars available for transportation and other community programs. Washoe Tahoe reported a 30% decline in room revenue and an 18% decrease in occupied rooms compared to 2024, figures that have real consequences.
Local leaders did explore a variety of long-term funding solutions, including the possibility of establishing a Business Improvement District to create stable revenue for services like TART Connect. However, that effort didn’t advance during the 2025 legislative session, leaving the region without a sustainable funding mechanism to maintain microtransit in Nevada.
While this means the Nevada service area will close, TART Connect will continue operating in California, where dedicated funding is already in place. Traditional fixed-route TART bus service will also continue running throughout the region as usual.
Regional partners have emphasized that although the future of microtransit in Incline Village and Crystal Bay remains uncertain, they intend to continue evaluating options and funding models that could bring the service back in a more reliable and financially sustainable form.
Residents who want to share feedback about the shutdown or express support for future mobility solutions can email: TART@placer.ca.gov
What This Means for Locals – And What Comes Next
Transportation access plays a meaningful role in daily life. Here are alternative options once TART Connect ends:
1. TART Fixed-Route Buses
These routes will continue providing free, reliable service across the North Shore with increased frequency during peak seasons.
2. IVGID & Regional Senior Transportation Programs
Seniors and residents with mobility needs may qualify for additional ride services through IVGID or regional partnerships. It’s worth exploring available programs now. (Learn more)
3. Rideshare Services
Uber and Lyft still operate in the area, though availability may fluctuate during storms or off-peak hours. Prices can spike, so plan ahead when possible. Most drivers require booking well in advance of the pick up time, as many come from Reno or the Carson City areas. (Get the Uber and/or Lyft Apps)
4. Local Shuttle & Taxi Companies
Several companies provide in-town rides, airport transportation, and subscription-based resident services. These may become increasingly valuable. (Potential companies serving the area)
5. Community Carpooling & Neighborhood Groups
Expect renewed interest in grassroots ride-sharing through Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and community forums – many of which were active before microtransit arrived. (Join the Facebook Group and Nextdoor)
6. eBikes & Micro-Mobility
When weather allows, eBikes, cargo bikes, and fat-tire bikes remain excellent options for short in-town travel.
Advocacy for What’s Next
If microtransit has been meaningful in your life, your voice truly matters. Community feedback will play a critical role in shaping whatever transportation solutions come next, so be sure to send an email to TART@placer.ca.gov.
In the meantime, every resident should begin exploring a reliable Plan B for getting around town after December 12th.