Now in its sixth year, the "Youth Ride Free" program continues to provide free transportation for Rapid City's school-aged youth.
Free transportation will provide students better access to schools, libraries, recreation, and social events as well as save money for families and foster appreciation for public transportation among the city's youth. The change has increased school attendance, access to school resources, and participation in school and community activities.
From Monday, August 22nd through Tuesday, August 30th, parents or guardians will be able to join their kids on the bus for free to show them how it works and to ask questions. RapidRide maps, materials and regular ride schedules are easily available online as well. Use the links below to see routes and times. Free travel training is available upon request. If you have questions or would like to schedule travel training, call us at 605-394-6631 ext. 0 between 7am-5:30pm Monday-Friday.
The Rapid Transit System is not providing physical passes to youth riders at this time. However, registration is still required for safety purposes. High School age youth are strongly encouraged to always have an ID in order to prove their eligibility for the program. This could be a current school ID or any government issued ID. A clear photo on a cell phone is acceptable.
*At this time we are not able to accommodate Terra Sancta and Corral Drive school Tripper Routes.
*An adult must accompany any children under five years old.
Rapid City youth must complete the registration form in order to utilize the fixed route Rapid Transit System. Registration can be done online by clicking on the "Register For Your youth ride free pass" below, calling the Rapid Trasnsit System Dispatch office at 605-394-6631 ext. 0, or the form can be printed and submitted by mail to:
Rapid Transit System
ATTN: YRFP
333 6th Street
Rapid City, SD 57701
Infants, toddlers and preschool age youth do not need to register.
If you have questions or require additional assistance, please contact Kendra Magelky, Operations Coordinator, at 394-6631 ext. 2 or kendra.magelky@rcgov.org
System Maps & Schedules
Borglum
Alternating loops along West Main St. and Jackson Blvd. Major destinations: Stevens High School, West Middle School, Oyate Health Center, Canyon Lake Park.
Coolidge
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Crossing, Monument Health by St Thomas More High School, VA Clinic, Walmart North, Walmart South.
Jefferson
South East and North East Loops. Major destinations: Walmart North, Community Health Center, Dept. of Social Services, Pennington County Fairgrounds.
Lincoln
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Mall, Walmart North, Monument Health by St Thomas More High School.
Roosevelt
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Mall, Post Office, Monument Health by St Thomas More High School, YMCA, Star Village.
Washington
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Mall, VA Clinic, Walmart North, The Monument, YMCA.
School Tripper Routes
Terra Sancta School Tripper (.pdf)Corral Drive / Southwest Middle School Tripper (.pdf)
Job Opportunities
Are you seeking an opportunity for new career challenges and growth?
Advertise With Us!
Advertising space on RapidRide & Dial-A-Ride vehicles is available on the rear and sides of the vehicles.
Terms for advertising are as follows:
$60.00 per month for rear advertising panel
$35.00 per month for side advertising panel
Note: annual contract required
Advertisers are responsible for all production costs. Dimensions for advertising panels vary. Ads must be pre-approved by Rapid Transit System for content, design and color(s).
Please call 605-394-6631 for more information.