According to the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), the Virginia Breeze intercity bus service achieved a new milestone in March 2025, posting its highest monthly ridership since launching.

Systemwide, the service recorded 8,049 passengers, a 25% increase, over March 2024.

Virginia Breeze’s Growth

The Valley Flyer route led the surge, which posted its highest ridership to date with 4,385 passengers. 

The record underscores the continued demand for accessible and affordable travel options across the Commonwealth, particularly in regions that lack robust transportation alternatives.

Managed by DRPT and funded through the Federal Transit Administration’s Intercity Bus Program, the Virginia Breeze operates four year-round routes: the Valley Flyer (Blacksburg to Washington, D.C.), the Piedmont Express (Danville to D.C.), the Capital Connector (Martinsville–Richmond–D.C.), and the Highlands Rhythm (Bristol to D.C.). 

The network bridges rural and urban communities and offers connections to larger transportation hubs.

DRPT expanded service capacity across multiple routes in March to meet rising demand. 

The Valley Flyer added 21 buses compared to the same month in 2024, while the Highlands Rhythm and Piedmont Express added six and three buses, respectively.

“This record-breaking ridership is a testament to the growing demand for safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options across Virginia,” said DRPT Director Tiffany Robinson. “Virginians are choosing the Virginia Breeze because it’s a service they can count on, operating 365 days a year. We’re proud to connect rural communities with major cities, job centers, and educational institutions, expanding access and opportunity.”

The Service’s Impact

Launched in 2017, the Virginia Breeze has become vital to the state’s intercity mobility strategy, particularly for underserved and rural populations. Its popularity continues to grow as passengers seek alternatives to private vehicles and increasingly value affordable, sustainable transportation options.

DRPT officials say they will continue monitoring ridership trends and exploring opportunities to further enhance the Virginia Breeze experience as part of a broader commitment to building a more connected and equitable transportation network across the state.