COAST reports 30% ridership growth, $31M economic impact in 2024

posted on 12/19/2024

The Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation (COAST) saw significant ridership increases across its services in fiscal year 2024, generating over $31 million in regional economic activity.

The nonprofit transit provider reported 349,143 trips on its fixed-route services, a 30.3% increase from 2023. Its demand-response services provided 24,797 trips for older adults and people with disabilities, up 7.8% from the previous year.

"COAST is a common thread," said Rad Nichols, COAST executive director. "We offer everyone an affordable and reliable connection to the opportunities and services they need to succeed." 

The organization's TripLink call center, which coordinates regional transportation services, facilitated over 41,000 trips in 2024, an 11% increase. New client registrations rose 16%.

COAST is currently raising funds for a new maintenance and operations facility in Dover. The organization has secured $14 million of the $18 million needed for construction.

"Every dollar invested in COAST returns an estimated $4.08 of economic activity within the region," Nichols said. "As we head into a new year, we're looking forward to growing our base of support among the business and philanthropic community."

For more information about COAST services, visit coastbus.org.