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Sioux Area Metro Announces Free Bus Fare for Cyclists Week of May 11 to Celebrate National Bike Month

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (April 15, 2026) — Sioux Area Metro (SAM) and the City of Sioux Falls today announced that all bus fares will be waived for riders who board with a bicycle throughout the week of May 11. This initiative, launched in honor of National Bike Month, aims to encourage sustainable commuting and highlight the seamless integration between cycling and the city’s redesigned transit network.

Following the successful implementation of the “SAM Reimagined” plan, which expanded transit access to 100% of the city and doubled job access for many residents, this promotion is the next step in fostering a multi-modal transportation culture in Sioux Falls.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for residents to leave their cars at home,” said Justin Jellinek, Via’s lead of Central Operations. “By offering free fares to cyclists, we are demonstrating how the bus can serve as a powerful ‘bridge’ for bike commuters—whether they are looking to cover longer distances, avoid inclement weather, or navigate hilly terrain. This initiative reflects our commitment to a data-driven, accessible transit system that grows alongside our city.”

How it Works:

  • Dates: May 11 through May 15, 2026.
  • Eligibility: Any rider boarding a SAM fixed-route bus with a bicycle will ride free of charge.
  • Process: Riders simply load their bike onto the front-mounted racks of the bus and inform the operator they are participating in the Bike Month promotion. No ticket or app activation is required for these trips.

Strengthening a Growing Network

Since partnering with Via in 2024, Sioux Area Metro has seen a significant increase in efficiency and ridership. Total transit ridership in 2025 increased by 21% relative to 2024, and the system is seeing similar growth in the first part of 2026.

“National Bike Month is the perfect time to explore how our revamped transit system can support your daily routine,” said Mayor Paul TenHaken. “Whether you’re biking to work, to the park, or to one of our local businesses, SAM is here to help you get there efficiently and affordably.”

For more information on routes, schedules, and how to use the bike racks, please visit siouxareametro.info or download the SAM Transit app.

About Via

Via partners with cities, counties, and transit agencies worldwide to plan, power, and operate smarter, more flexible public transportation services — strategically integrating microtransit, paratransit, and fixed-route onto a single platform.

We support network service design and ongoing optimization, working alongside local teams to right-size and continuously improve outcomes for their community.