Below are resources and a summary of changes effective on 7/15/2024. Areas of this document will be updated as resources, like more community education sessions, are added. Please check back often to get the latest information.
Available Resources:
Community Education Sessions
Valley Transit staff will be available to discuss 7/15/24 service changes and answer your questions on the following dates and times:
- Monday, June 17th starting at 2PM at the Appleton Transit Center (100 E Washington Street, Appleton)
- Thursday, June 20th starting 2PM at the Appleton Transit Center
- Monday, June 24th, 7AM – 9AM at the Appleton Transit Center
- Tuesday, June 25th, 2PM – 6PM at the Appleton Transit Center
- Wednesday, July 10th, 2PM – 6PM, Temporary Neenah Transit Center (200 S Church Street, Neenah) (*newly added)
- Thursday, July 11th, 3PM – 7PM at Appleton Transit Center (*newly added)
- Friday, July 12th, 7AM – 9AM at Appleton Transit Center (*newly added)
Riders can also call or email Valley Transit with questions. Call (920) 832-5800 or email valley.transit@appleton.org
Bus Schedule
Route Maps
*Route maps effective 7/15/2024.
VT Connector Program & Schedule Changes
VT Connector is a fully accessible shared-ride van service that anyone can use and does not require certification. VT Connector hours have been extended to provide transportation during non-bus hours and continues service during bus hours to connect riders to the nearest bus transfer point. All one-way trips will cost $2. The service area will include the Cities of Appleton, Kaukauna, Menasha, and Neenah; Towns of Buchanan and Grand Chute; Villages of Fox Crossing, Kimberly, and Little Chute. See the brochure below for more information. The trip reservation number is 920-832-5789.
*VT Connector brochure effective 7/15/2024.
*Valley Transit Bus Transfer Points are: West Transfer Point (Fox River Mall); Downtown Appleton Transit Center; North Transfer Point (1st Ave & Union St); Northeast Transfer Point (Little Chute); Neenah Transit Center; and East Transfer Point (Darboy Goodwill).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VT Connector?
VT Connector is Valley Transit’s on-demand micro-transit service designed to provide shared rides to various destinations in the Fox Cities area. During bus hours it operates to help connect riders to the nearest transfer point. During non-bus hours it operates to provide shared rides.
| Monday -Friday Hours | Saturday Hours | |
| Origin to Destination Service: Trips Provided within Service Area | 4:00 AM – 6:00 AM | 4:00 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Bus Feeder Service: Trips Provided to/from nearest Transfer Point* | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Origin to Destination Service: Trips Provided within Service Area | 6:00 PM – Midnight | 1:00 PM – Midnight |
*Valley Transit Bus Transfer Points are: West Transfer Point (Fox River Mall); Downtown Appleton Transit Center; North Transfer Point (1st Ave & Union St); Northeast Transfer Point (Little Chute); Neenah Transit Center; and East Transfer Point (Darboy Goodwill).
How does the VT Connector differ from services like Uber or Lyft?
Unlike Uber or Lyft, the VT Connector is a shared-ride service. This means that during your trip, the vehicle might stop at multiple locations to pick up or drop off other passengers. Additionally, all VT Connector vehicles are ADA accessible.
How do I schedule a ride on the VT Connector?
To reserve a ride, call 920-832-5789. Phones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If a dispatcher is on another phone call, leave a message and they will call you back.
VT Connector requires an advanced reservation a minimum of 2 hours prior to travel. However, you can reserve your ride(s) up to 14 days in advance. If a round trip is needed, remember to also make your return trip reservation at the same time.
How much does a trip on the VT Connector cost?
Each one-way trip on the VT Connector costs $2. This fare is separate from the fares for fixed-route buses.
Do I need cash to ride VT Connector or can I purchase tickets in advance?
Drivers accept exact cash payment; they cannot make change or accept tips. Tickets can also be purchased in advance at Valley Transit’s Administrative Office (801 S. Whitman Avenue) or Transit Center (when staff is available).
Can I make multiple stops during my trip?
No, each trip includes one destination. Brief stops at locations before the scheduled destination are not allowed. If multiple destinations are needed, each section of the trip must be scheduled separately, and the rider must pay a fare for each ride.
How can I learn more about using the VT Connector?
Valley Transit will be hosting a series of community education sessions to help users understand how to book rides and navigate the VT Connector service. The dates, times, and locations for these sessions will be announced soon.
We also offer travel training services. To contact our travel training specialist, call 920-832-5800 or email traveltraining@Appleton.org.
What areas does the VT Connector serve?
The VT Connector serves the same areas as the fixed-route buses, including the Cities of Appleton, Kaukauna, Menasha and Neenah; the Towns of Buchanan and Grand Chute; and the Villages of Fox Crossing, Kimberly and Little Chute.
How does VT Connector operate during bus service hours?
VT Connector operates two ways during bus service hours:
- Option 1: Take a bus to a transfer point that is closest to your destination. Then use a scheduled VT Connector ride to finish your trip.
- Option 2: Reserve a VT Connector ride to take you to the nearest transfer point. Then take the bus to get to your destination.
How does VT Connector operate outside bus service hours?
When there is no bus service, VT Connector provides door-to-door service:
- Weekdays: 4-6 AM or 6 PM-midnight
- Saturdays: 4-8 AM or 1 PM-midnight
Can I use my bus pass for VT Connector?
No, bus passes cannot be used for VT Connector fares.
I am part of a Family Care agency. How do I buy tickets for VT Connector?
If you are a part of a Family Care agency (Lakeland or Community Care, IRIS, Inclusa), contact them for tickets.
Does my reduced fare or Veteran Service-Connected ID also work for fares with VT Connector?
No, VT Connector is $2 for each rider, regardless of age or ability is eligible to use VT Connector, but the cost is the same for everyone because it offers an individualized service from origin to destination.
Is there a 30-day pass for VT Connector?r Title Goes Here
No, there is not a 30-day pass. To pay your VT Connector fare you can purchase tickets in advance at Valley Transit’s Administrative Office (801 S. Whitman Avenue) or at the Transit Center when staff is available. VT Connector drivers can also accept exact cash payment, however they cannot make change.
What information do I need to provide when making a VT Connector reservation?
Be prepared to provide the following information:
- Specify that you are calling to make a reservation for VT Connector.
- The date(s)of your trip.
- State and spell your first & last name + any companions or children (You must provide car seats).
- The full addressof your pick-up location and drop-off destination.
- Know the time of your appointment. This will determine if your pick-up or drop-off time is most important. Be flexible.
- Any additional informationabout your pick-up or drop-off location (door, department, office, doctor’s name, etc.). Describe any carry-ons to ensure van has space (ex. walker, stroller, laundry basket).
- The type of tripyou are booking (Example: medical, school, work, shopping).
- Confirm if this will be one-wayservice or if you need to schedule a return trip.
Can I bring my child on the VT Connector?
Yes, you can bring your child on the VT Connector. Each rider will be required to pay the $2 one-way fare.
Do I need to bring a car seat for my child?
Yes, if your child requires a car seat by law, you must provide and properly install the car seat yourself. The driver cannot assist with installing the car seat. You are responsible for securing it properly.
What should I do to avoid missing my ride?
You will be provided with a 30-minute waiting period when you make your reservation. We recommend putting the start time of your 30-minute waiting period (with a reminder notification) on your calendar, so you don’t forget. Be sure this period does not overlap with bus schedules if transferring to/from a bus.
How long will the driver wait for me?
The driver will only wait 5 minutes before leaving to stay on schedule for the next reservation.
What happens if I miss my ride?
Three missed rides/no shows within three months will result in suspension.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations require at least a 1-hour notice, but please call sooner if your plans change.
Is there service on Sundays?
No, there is no bus or VT Connector service available on Sundays.
I have concerns about the VT Connector service. Who should I contact?
If you have any concerns or issues during your ride, please contact Running, Inc. at 920-832-5789. Additionally, inform Valley Transit of any issues so we can address your concerns. You can reach Valley Transit at 920-832-5800. We also appreciate hearing your positive compliments!