Huntsville expanding transit services

Major changes are coming to the system in 2026

Huntsville Council received an update on the Town's progress regarding changes to its transit system, in the December 10, 2025, meeting.

Staff outlined new marketing options that were prompted by Council direction in 2024 to research opportunities for the Main Street West transit shelter.

The discussion comes as a part of significant change for Huntsville's transit system. According to the Town's pre-meeting highlights, the project will be implemented in stages, resulting in “a three-step phased approach to improve service, accessibility, and ridership.”

It continues that as part of Phase 1, staff sought Council approval in the summer to add two more businesses “to improve the bus route, modernize the fleet, and increase service.”

Staff report that because the transit system is expected to undergo major changes, with phase 3 expansion starting in July of 2026—including potential route adjustments, new infrastructure, and final decisions on bus stop locations—they recommend postponing a full advertising feasibility and revenue analysis until the expansion is complete.

Current advertising at the Main Street West shelter will continue to be managed internally for Huntsville programming and tourism promotions.

Staff proposed allocating $3,200 in annual printing costs for 2026, to print posters for the transit shelter four times a year, which will be funded through operational savings or the Working Funds Reserve. The same amount is recommended for the draft 2027 Mayor's Budget.

The report explains how transit advertising programs work in other municipalities, including ads on buses, shelters, benches, waste containers, and digital formats.

Staff indicated that many municipalities outsource their advertising programs to third-party vendors through revenue-sharing agreements, which allows vendors to manage ad sales, invoicing, installation, and maintenance, reducing municipal workload while generating revenue for the community.

Councillor, Helena Renwick, inquired about how the outsourcing cost sharing will be divided between the Town and third party?

Staff said it could range from 60%-40%, 70%-30%, etc., however, it’s a negotiation based on the amount of municipal inventory associated with the transit program.

They indicate that next steps involve exploring advertising opportunities that are aligned with the Town’s plan.