Bus Stops

Designated Stops

MTD operates on a system of designated stops, which means that all MTD bus trips begin and end only at specific stops. This system reduces confusion, boosts MTD's on-time performance, and improves safety for our passengers. To find your nearest designated stop, search here.

We ask that you board and alight MTD's buses only at designated stops. When catching a bus, simply stand near any bus stop sign, wait for your bus to arrive, and give the Operator a wave. When riding and requesting a stop near your destination, simply pull the yellow cord and the Operator will stop at the next safe and accessible designated stop so that you can alight.

In Fall 2020, MTD added new iStops and expanded route eligibility within the University District. iStops are special designated stops located on and near campus, as well as at The LINC, ONYX, Capstone Quarters, and Campus Circle. At iStops, to expedite boarding, it is unnecessary for anyone to pay a fare or show any sort of a pass or ID.

All routes at designated iStops are eligible for this enhanced boarding procedure. Newer iStops were added along White Street and at Research Park. This simplified and expanded approach to iStops eliminates confusion surrounding route eligibility, and improves access and efficiency at busy campus stops.

Real-time Info

About

All MTD buses are tracked via GPS. We publish real-time departure estimates on bus stop pages and share real-time information with mobile apps like Transit.

SMS

Get real-time departure information by SMS

1. Send the SMS text code for your stop (e.g. Parkland's SMS code is mtd3534) to 35890
2. After a few seconds, you’ll receive a text message reply containing the incoming routes and their scheduled times of departure.

Get service alerts by SMS

Head over to the Account Alerts page to opt-in to SMS Alerts.

FAQ

Where can I find the SMS text code for my stop?
Either the Bus Stop Lookup tool, printed on the bus stop sign, or the Maps & Schedules book.

Will this work with my cell phone?
MTD's SMS Codes work with all major carriers.

Does this service cost anything?
While MTD does not charge for this service, message and data rates may apply. 

Need help?
Send us an email at sms@mtd.org or text HELP to 35890. 

SMS Service Terms and Conditions

STOPwatch is an SMS service provided by the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD). The service provides bus departure information in response to user requests and service alerts, including reroutes, to users who opt in through an MTD account.

Bus departure information is provided as one response per user request. Message frequency for service alerts varies. Message and data rates may apply.

To stop, STOP to 35890. After you text STOP, you will receive a confirmation message and will no longer receive SMS messages from this service. To receive messages again, opt in through your MTD account.​

SMS Privacy Policy

MTD may collect and retain your telephone number, message content, bus stop search code, opt-in status, and related messaging records when you use the STOPwatch SMS service. MTD uses this information to provide requested bus departure information and service alerts, operate and maintain the SMS service, keep service logs, and provide customer support.