Saratoga Q&A

How have the routes changed?

CDTA has doubled the number of routes in Saratoga. You can go from the outskirts of Saratoga to downtown and beyond without changing buses. All the new bus routes are direct, with no confusing loops and very simple schedules.

Where will the buses go?

CDTA is offering direct routes to connect riders with the entire area, with destinations including: Downtown Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Gaming & Raceway (Racino), Saratoga Springs Train Station, Skidmore College, Saratoga BOCES, the malls at Wilton, Ballston Spa, Saratoga High School, Saratoga YMCA, Schenectady and more.

Do all these improvements mean fares are going up?

No. The cash fare remains $1 and $3 Day Cards provide one day of unlimited rides. For the greatest savings, purchase 5-day or 7-day unlimited-ride monthly Swiper cards. Senior citizens and riders with disabilities ride for half-fare, all the time.

How do I pay my fare?

Riders pay with cash, passes or Swiper cards on the bus. You can also buy passes and discount cards online and at CDTA offices.

How do I pay for transfers?

Either pay $1 each time you board the bus, or choose a $3 Day Card and board any CDTA bus as often as you like during a single service day.

How do I know where the bus stop is?

CDTA bus stops feature new signs with a distinctive Saratoga logo and a route number so you’ll know you’re in the right place. A new system map is available in print and online that clearly shows you the routes available throughout our entire system.

Will there be more sheltered places to wait for buses in Saratoga?

Yes. CDTA has added six new clearly marked shelters and stops in the Saratoga area, with more planned as ridership increases.

I’ve never used the bus before. How can I learn about how to ride?

CDTA’s How to Ride Guide is available online and in print. In addition, CDTA travel trainers can work with you or your group to teach you all about our convenient services. Call 518-482-8822.

Does CDTA operate special services for riders with disabilities in Saratoga?

Yes, Special Transit Available on Request (STAR) service operates in Saratoga to meet the needs of riders with disabilities who are unable to use regular route service. A certification process is required to determine eligibility, please contact us for more information at 518-482-2022.

Do buses stop at Park & Ride lots?

Yes! Park and take the bus from any of our Park & Ride locations. The Saratoga Springs Train Station, the Wilton Mall (Main Entrance) or the Saratoga Gaming & Raceway (Nelson Avenue Entrance).

What do the new route numbers mean?

Routes displaying 3-digits are neighborhood routes where the first digit is the county. 4 is Saratoga, 3 is Schenectady, 2 is Rensselaer, 1 is Albany. The next two digits are the route number. For example, Route 472 tells you it’s the #72 route in Saratoga.

Why is CDTA making these changes in Saratoga?

The changes in Saratoga are part of CDTA’s strategic plan for meeting the changing transportation needs of the Capital Region. Saratoga’s expanding role in the growth of the region’s economy, as well as its walkable urban design, point to a strong market for urban transit. Stakeholders in Saratoga were instrumental in helping identify services that would best serve those living and working in Saratoga.

For more information, call 518-482-8822 or Contact Us online.