FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Mountain Line has opened a public comment period on several proposed service changes scheduled to take effect in August 2026, including new bus stops, expanded route coverage, and increased weekday frequency on key corridors.
The proposed updates impact Routes 2, 3, 5, 8, and 66 and are largely tied to voter-approved funding under Proposition 488 (November 2024) and ongoing development across the city.
Route 2 – McMillan Mesa Additions
Mountain Line is proposing two new eastbound stops on McMillan Mesa:
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Pine Cliff & Forest Ave. (near The Lofts apartments)
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Gemini Rd. & Jasper Dr. (near the Arizona State Veteran Home)
Consistent eastbound service was introduced to the McMillan Mesa area in July 2025 after years of limited school-time deviations. Demand in the corridor has continued to grow, and the additional stops aim to improve access for residents, businesses, schools, and nearby facilities.
Route 3 – Increased Weekday Frequency
Route 3 would see weekday peak service (approximately 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.) increase from 30-minute frequency to 20-minute frequency.
Officials say the change aligns with Proposition 488 commitments, allowing riders more flexibility and reduced wait times during high-demand hours.
Route 5 – New Stop Near Starpoint Apartments
A new westbound stop is proposed at Highway 180 and Whiting Road, near the Starpoint Apartments.
The addition is part of a grant-funded “First Mile Last Mile” project between Mountain Line and the City of Flagstaff aimed at improving pedestrian and bike access to bus stops. A new crosswalk planned at the intersection would allow for safer access and fill a current gap in westbound stops along that corridor.
Route 8 – Major Expansion Along West Route 66
Route 8 would extend service along the rapidly developing W. Route 66 corridor by creating a full loop from Woody Mountain Road to McAllister Ranch Road and Alvan Clark Boulevard before returning to Route 66.
New proposed stops include:
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McAllister & Charon
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Alvan Clark Blvd. (Adora at Timber Sky)
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Alvan Clark Blvd. (Woody Mountain Apartments)
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W. Route 66 & Woody Mountain Rd. (LivTimber)
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W. Route 66 & Thompson St. (eastbound)
With the extension, Route 8 would no longer serve the Thompson St./University Ave./Woodlands Village Blvd. loop. Impacts include:
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Removal of Stop 10 (Thompson St., south of Route 66) — riders would instead use the new Route 66/Thompson stop.
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Stop 11 (University Ave. & Forest Meadows St.) remains in service via Route 10.
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Removal of Stop 12 (Woodlands Village Blvd. & University Ave.).
Transit officials say the W. Route 66 corridor has been a long-standing priority area due to rapid residential and commercial growth.
Route 66 – Increased Frequency & New Health Center Access
Route 66 would also move to 20-minute peak weekday service (from 30 minutes).
Additionally, a new eastbound stop at Hwy 89 and E. Trails End Drive is proposed, improving access to Sacred Peaks Health Center and closing a service gap in the area.
How to Comment
Full details on the proposed changes can be found at:
https://mountainline.az.gov/servicechanges/
Public comments will be accepted through April 15, 2026, via:
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📞 Phone: 928-679-8921
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📧 Email: transportation@mountainline.az.gov
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🌐 Online: www.mountainline.az.gov/contact
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📍 In person or by mail: 3773 N. Kaspar Dr., Flagstaff, AZ 86004
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🗣 Public Board Meetings: March 18 or April 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (written, virtual, or in-person comments accepted)
Mountain Line operates nine fixed bus routes, paratransit service, vanpool programs, and seasonal Mountain Express service to Arizona Snowbowl throughout northern Arizona.
Residents are encouraged to review the proposed changes and submit feedback before the April deadline.
