This Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., the Miami-Dade County Commission will convene at the Stephen P. Clark Government Center (111 NW 1st St, Miami) to decide on proposed Metrobus service changes for the 2026-27 fiscal year. These changes involve the complete elimination of 12 routes and the reduction of night services on 40 others, with Hialeah and Little Havana expected to bear the brunt of the impact.
The proposed changes were part of a $14.26 billion budget approved on September 18 following a marathon session that extended until 5 a.m. on Friday. Although this vote saved early morning services on 45 routes, it left $19 million in nighttime service cuts and route eliminations intact, as detailed in a Latin Times analysis of the potential impact on night shift workers.
Which Routes Are Affected?
The 12 routes proposed for complete elimination include: 16, 25, 42, 57, 70, 132, 203, 204, 272, 279, 288, and 338.
Routes slated to lose service after 10 p.m. are: 3, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 32, 35, 36, 37, 40, 52, 54, 62, 72, 75, 77, 79, 87, 88, 101, 103, 104, 107, 125, 135, 137, 150, 183, 199, 400, and 510.
Collectively, these cuts are expected to affect approximately 7,691 trips daily.
Impact on Low-Income Workers
For many newly arrived Cubans and low-income workers in Hialeah and Little Havana, who are employed in restaurants, security, cleaning, and warehouses in Doral, Metrobus remains their sole mode of transportation.
Fares and Options for Low-Income Residents
Alongside these cuts, there's also discussion of a potential fare increase. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava has been straightforward with commissioners: "We need to increase the transit fare," she stated.
The current fare stands at $2.25 per trip ($112.50 for a monthly pass), and as noted by Commissioner Oliver Gilbert, this covers only about a tenth of the actual cost per ride.
While the Metromover remains free for everyone, its reach does not extend to Hialeah or most of Little Havana.
For residents earning less than $35,910 annually, Miami-Dade offers the Mobility EASY Card, which allows free travel on Metrobus and Metrorail. Initial applications must be made in person at the Golden Passport Office at the Government Center (111 NW 1st St, first floor), Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by calling 786-469-5028.
This Tuesday's session is open to the public, and citizens can offer comments before the Commission reaches a final decision. Any alterations to service require the Commission to approve alternative funding or adjustments beyond those already included in the budget.
Key Questions on Miami-Dade Bus Service Changes
Why are these bus routes being eliminated?
The cuts are part of a budget plan aiming to address financial constraints while maintaining essential services, though they significantly impact night shift workers and low-income communities.
How can affected residents voice their concerns?
Residents can attend the public session on Tuesday and provide comments before the Commission makes its final decision on the proposed service changes.
What is being done to support low-income residents affected by these changes?
The Mobility EASY Card is available for eligible low-income residents, offering free rides on Metrobus and Metrorail to help mitigate the impact of service cuts.